West African interest rates fall for the first time since 2020

On 12 June 2025, the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO) announced the reduction of its reference interest rate to 3,25%marking the first decrease since 2020. This decision is part of a scenario of sustained economic growth in the countries of the region.

At the same time, the BCEAO adjusted the marginal interest rate on loans, in a move aimed at stimulating investment through greater access to credit.

On the macroeconomic front, the indicators point to a slowdown in year-on-year inflation, which fell from 2,9% by the end of 2024 to 2,3% in the first quarter of 2025. This evolution was influenced by the improvement in internal supply and the fall in the prices of imported goodskeeping inflation below the target of 3% defined by the central bank itself.

The decision applies to the 8 member countries of the West African Monetary Union (UMOA): Benin, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Guinea-Bissau, Mali, Niger, Senegal and Togo.

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