N’Djamena hosts key economic meeting as Tchad targets 5.3 % growth by 2026

The National Economic and Financial Committee (CNEF) of Tchad concluded its second ordinary session of the year in the capital, N’Djamena, under the leadership of Tahir Hamid Nguilin, Minister of State for Finance, Budget, Economy, Planning, and International Cooperation—and also CNEF President.

The high-level gathering brought together Guibolo Fanga Mathieu, Minister of Trade and Industry, Saleh Bourma Ali, Deputy Minister of Finance in charge of Economy, Planning, and International Cooperation, Yvon Sana Bangui, Governor of the Bank of Central African States (BEAC), along with other statutory members.

Led by Idriss Ahmed Idriss, Secretary-General of the Committee and National Director of the BEAC, discussions focused on the global, regional, and national macroeconomic landscape, including 2026 economic forecasts and medium-term projections.

Global tensions weigh on economic outlook

The final communiqué highlighted persistent geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, and rising protectionist policies across multiple regions as key global challenges.

Despite these pressures, Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC) economies demonstrated resilience, with controlled inflation, improved fiscal and external balances, and strengthened foreign exchange reserves.

Tchad forecasts 5.3 % GDP growth in 2026

Domestically, the CNEF projects real GDP growth of 5.3 % in 2026, up from 5.1 % in 2025. This growth is expected to be driven primarily by the non-oil sector, despite a projected decline in oil production.

The Committee also noted a continued easing of inflationary pressures, with the inflation rate projected to fall to 0.5 % in 2026 from 2.6 % in 2025, signaling a stronger macroeconomic environment.

Financial sector shows robust gains

Members observed a notable increase in net foreign assets by the end of March 2026, along with growth in money supply and a comfortable level of import coverage by reserves.

The banking sector and non-bank financial institutions posted encouraging results, with the aggregate banking balance sheet expanding by 4.9 % year-on-year as of March 2026.

Budget execution and financial inclusion take center stage

On the fiscal front, the CNEF reviewed the state budget execution as of June 2026. The Committee also assessed several key files, including the effective interest rate report for Q1 2026, findings from banking compliance audits, and updates on the central bank’s initiative to expand deposit services across the country.

Following the session, the Committee reaffirmed its commitment to closely monitor economic and financial indicators to safeguard macroeconomic stability and foster sustainable growth.