According to the Central Bank of West African States (Bceao), the trade deficit worsened in the second quarter of 2021. It stood at 744.8 billion CFA francs.

The trade deficit stood at 744.8 billion, due to an increase in imports (+14.5%) stronger than that of exports (+9.9%). Thus, the deficit worsened by 254.0 billion CFA francs compared to the year 2020. The Bceao indicates that the money supply in the Union increased by 19.2% over one year, due to an increase in net foreign assets (+35.9%) and domestic claims (+14.2%). In addition, the inflation rate stands at 3.3% in the second quarter of 2021. The Central Bank notes that the rise in food prices is observed in most countries of the Union, in connection with the increase in the price of cereals , fruits and vegetables, tubers and plantains, as well as fish products.