The Mali and the International Monetary Fund are preparing to open negotiations on an economic and financial programme supported by the Extended Credit Facility, following a mission conducted in Bamako from 5 to 9 October 2026, the Malian Ministry of Economy and Finance announced.
The next steps include sending additional information and remote meetings to pursue technical work. The statement published on 9 October neither reports an agreement on a programme nor a financing amount, with discussions still at an early stage ahead of negotiations.
Chaired by Minister Alousséni Sanou, the closing meeting allowed discussion of growth, inflation, public finances and external accounts. The monetary situation and that of the banking sector were also on the discussion agenda.
During its stay, the IMF delegation met officials from the ministries of Finance, Mines, Energy and Water, as well as Industry and Commerce. The mission also aimed to introduce the new mission chief and to exchange views with technical and financial partners.
The Extended Credit Facility provides support to low-income countries facing prolonged balance of payments difficulties. According to the IMF, it combines financing with a reform programme, monitored through periodic reviews. Agreed objectives with the authorities and progress on measures then determine access to financing tranches.