Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have introduced a 0.5% tariff on imported goods from countries that are not part of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
In January, these three West African nations decided to leave the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and form the AES. They believe that ECOWAS is influenced by colonial powers and want more control over their economies.
Even though they are leaving ECOWAS, they will still enjoy some ECOWAS benefits like free movement of people and goods for a short time while separation agreements are finalized. However, countries outside AES or those without a trade agreement with AES will be affected by the tariff.
According to General Assimi Goïta, the leader of Mali and AES president, the money from the tariff will fund development projects in AES countries. This includes:
- Economic growth initiatives
- Building public infrastructure
- Social programs to help people
Some items will not be taxed, such as:
- Goods passing through these countries (transit goods)
- Aid, donations, and grants
Mali’s Minister of Economy and Finance, Alousséni Sanou, reassured people that this tariff won’t increase prices for consumers.
The military governments of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso took power in coups between 2020 and 2023. They have promised to follow policies that make them more independent from foreign influence.
