An International Monetary Fund (IMF) team, led by Ms. Wenjie Chen, conducted the 2025 Article IV consultation in Mali from June 9 to 13. The discussions with Malian authorities focused on economic developments, future outlooks, and policies for macroeconomic stability and growth.
Ms. Chen stated, “Mali’s economy has shown some resilience despite significant headwinds. Economic growth is estimated at 4.7 percent in 2024 unchanged from 2023, due to a combination of factors, including an electricity crisis, flooding and lower gold production." She noted that the fiscal deficit decreased to 2.6 percent of GDP in 2024 due to revenue mobilization and tighter spending control.
Looking ahead, real GDP growth is expected to reach 5.0 percent in 2025 but could be affected by reduced gold mine output and security risks. Growth might rebound to 5.4 percent in 2026 if full mining activities resume. The fiscal deficit may widen to 3.4 percent in 2025 due to government flood mitigation efforts.
Chen emphasized the need for fiscal sustainability through revenue mobilization and spending efficiency while protecting public investment and vulnerable households: “Fiscal policy should prioritize achieving fiscal sustainability...Key priorities include strengthening domestic revenue mobilization...and improving spending efficiency.”
She also highlighted the importance of reducing policy uncertainty and advancing structural reforms: “Reducing domestic policy uncertainty and advancing structural reforms are essential to unlocking Mali’s growth potential."
The IMF team engaged with several officials during their visit, including Mr. Alousséni Sanou, Minister of Economy and Finance; Mr. Mamoudou Kassogue, Minister of Justice; Mr. Baréma Bocoum, National Director of the BCEAO for Mali; senior ministry staff; development partners; and private sector representatives.
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