Mali has unveiled its 2026 Finance Bill, projecting increased revenue and a reduced fiscal deficit, signaling a gradual consolidation of public accounts amid ongoing economic challenges.
The Council of Ministers approved the draft finance law on Friday, September 26, in Bamako.
According to official figures, the budget anticipates revenue of 3,057.8 billion CFA francs, up from 2,739.7 billion in the revised 2025 Finance Act, representing an 11.6% increase.
Public expenditure is set at 3,578.2 billion CFA francs, compared with 3,279.9 billion in 2025, a rise of 9.1%.
The overall deficit is projected at 520.4 billion CFA francs, down 3.7% from the previous year’s 540.2 billion.
The bill has been drafted in line with Organic Law No. 2025-038 of August 15, 2025, which outlines procedures for the preparation, adoption, and execution of the state budget. It will now be submitted to the National Transitional Council for review and approval before coming into effect on January 1, 2026.
Officials attribute the projected improvement to the implementation of new tax measures and enhanced mobilization of domestic resources. “Revenue is increasing faster than expenditure, allowing for a reduction in the deficit while maintaining priority investments,” an official statement said.
The budget allocates continued funding to key sectors, including security, energy, infrastructure, education, and health, reflecting the transitional authorities’ commitment to consolidating state functions and supporting development initiatives.
Once approved, the 2026 budget will serve as the framework for Mali’s fiscal policy, guiding financing commitments, negotiations with technical and financial partners, and the implementation of national priorities during the transitional period. The government describes the plan as a step toward greater fiscal discipline and sustainable economic management amid ongoing domestic and regional challenges.
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