The Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO) has introduced new tariff conditions for money transfers within the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA) zone. This move aims to enhance financial inclusion and make the Interoperable Instant Payment System (PI-SPI) a central payment infrastructure. The platform, launched on September 30, 2025, currently has 175 connected participants and provides access to instant payments for over 38 million people.
As of November 2, 2026, national transfers up to 8,000 FCFA per day and per participant will be free of charge, with no limit on the number of transactions. This threshold covers approximately 75% of electronic money transactions in UEMOA. For amounts exceeding 8,000 FCFA, fees ranging from 0 to 0.8% of the amount excluding taxes may apply. However, recipients will continue to receive transfers free of charge.
The new tariff conditions also apply to interoperable transfers between UEMOA countries, effective June 1, 2027. These measures cover transfers between bank accounts or microfinance accounts and those opened with electronic money or payment institutions. They also apply to transfers between electronic money institutions and payment institutions. The goal is to promote financial inclusion and improve access to instant payments.
The BCEAO evaluated the implementation of interoperability after the first year of operation and decided to revise tariffs to encourage financial inclusion. The new conditions aim to make PI-SPI a central infrastructure for payments in the UEMOA zone. With 175 connected participants, the platform has made significant progress since its launch.
The introduction of new tariff conditions is expected to increase the use of electronic payments and promote financial inclusion in the region. The BCEAO's move is seen as a step towards achieving a more integrated and efficient payment system in West Africa. The platform's impact on the region's economy will be closely monitored.
The BCEAO's decision to revise tariffs is part of its efforts to improve the payment system in the UEMOA zone. The new conditions are expected to benefit individuals and businesses that rely on electronic payments for their daily transactions. The platform's success will depend on its ability to provide secure, efficient, and affordable payment services.
The new tariff conditions for money transfers in UEMOA are a significant development in the region's financial sector. The BCEAO's efforts to promote financial inclusion and improve access to instant payments are expected to have a positive impact on the economy. The platform's progress will be closely watched by stakeholders in the region.
Key points
- The BCEAO has introduced new tariff conditions for money transfers in UEMOA to promote financial inclusion and make PI-SPI a central payment infrastructure.
