The economy of the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) continues to demonstrate resilience. In the second quarter of 2026, economic activity across the Union grew by 6.0%, despite the uncertainties and tensions that continue to weigh on the global economy.
Presented in Dakar at the opening of the third ordinary session of the WAEMU Council of Ministers for 2026, these results reflect economic activity that remains broadly solid.
Growth nevertheless slowed slightly compared with the first quarter, when it stood at 6.1%. However, this development does not undermine the momentum observed since the beginning of the year, driven by several key sectors of the regional economy.
Extractive and manufacturing industries, trade and services are among the main drivers of this performance.
On the price front, the situation also remains relatively stable. Inflation stood at 0.4% in the second quarter of 2026, compared with -0.2% in the previous quarter.
For the full year, inflation is now projected at 1.0%, following zero inflation recorded in 2025. According to Union authorities, these levels reflect a broadly controlled macroeconomic environment.
The Union’s external position also improved during the period. This strengthening was notably supported by increased exports of several strategic products, including gold, cotton, cocoa and petroleum products.
These performances thus reinforce the momentum of WAEMU’s external trade, against an international backdrop marked by numerous uncertainties.
The presentation of these indicators took place during the WAEMU Council of Ministers meeting, chaired by Burkina Faso’s Minister of Economy and Finance, Dr. Aboubakar Nacanabo.
According to the Directorate of Communication and Public Relations of the Ministry of Economy and Finance (DCRP/MEF), these results reflect the strong performance of economic activity and the stability of the macroeconomic framework within the Union.