Despite this decrease, the BEAC is optimistic about a gradual recovery in foreign assets. The projection for 2027 is 6,983 billion CFA francs, and for 2028, reserves are expected to exceed 7,000 billion CFA francs, equivalent to $12.5 billion. This favorable trajectory will allow the CEMAC zone to cover more than four months of imports, although this figure is slightly lower than 4.25 months at the end of 2025.

Factors Likely to Keep Foreign Exchange Reserves Afloat

Several factors support this positive momentum, notably the signing of new agreements with the International Monetary Fund, which is crucial for strengthening economic stability; increased recourse to external borrowing; the strength of non-oil exports, such as gas, gold, and mineral products, which plays a key role in bolstering reserves; and the enforcement of exchange regulations implemented to ensure better management of capital flows.

To guarantee this recovery, the BEAC has tightened its monetary policy, with an increase in the key interest rate to 4.75% and a tightening of refinancing conditions. These measures aim to stabilize the CFA franc and restore investor confidence in the CEMAC zone.

The region's economic situation thus remains under close scrutiny, but the positive outlook provided by the BEAC could well contribute to a more stable and secure future for the member states of the community.