• Mali’s 2025 budget deficit reaches 1.5% of GDP

• Tax revenue stronger than forecast; spending below target

• IMF projects economic growth around 5% in 2025

Mali’s budget deficit reached 1.5% of GDP in 2025, well below the initial forecast of 2.7%, Minister of Economy and Finance Alousseni Sanou said on Friday, Feb. 27. The figures were released during the launch of preparations for the 2027 budget in Bamako.

The outcome reflects sustained revenue growth and tight control of public spending. Tax revenue collection was described as strong, with the tax-to-GDP ratio reaching 14.2%, above the 13.4% forecast. Public spending was contained at 20.9% of GDP, below the 22% target.

The short-term outlook remains broadly favorable. The country is still on track to keep its deficit within the 3% community ceiling. According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), authorities should strengthen domestic resource mobilization and improve public spending efficiency, while preserving investment and protecting vulnerable households.

The budget outcome comes amid an environment still weakened by a persistent security and humanitarian crisis, as well as financial constraints. These conditions complicate the management of economic, social, and political stability in the Sahelian country.

Mali’s economy is expected to grow by around 5% in 2025, according to the IMF, supported by strong agricultural production, the start of lithium extraction, and growth in services. Growth could accelerate to 5.4% in 2026, provided that mining activities return to normal.

Ingrid Haffiny