Tchad’s economic outlook: 5.3% growth projected for 2026

The National Economic and Financial Committee (CNEF) of Chad concluded its second ordinary session of 2026 on July 21 in N’Djamena, chaired by the Minister of State for Finance, Budget, Economy, Planning, and International Cooperation, Tahir Hamid Nguilin, who also leads the Committee.

Attendees included the Minister of Trade and Industry, Guibolo Fanga Mathieu, the Deputy Minister for Economy, Planning, and International Cooperation under the Finance portfolio, Saleh Bourma Ali, the Governor of the Bank of Central African States (BEAC), Yvon Sana Bangui, and other statutory members.

During the session, the CNEF analyzed global, regional, and national macroeconomic conditions, economic outlooks for 2026, and medium-term projections. The findings were presented by the Committee’s Secretary-General and BEAC’s National Director, Idriss Ahmed Idriss.

Global uncertainties shape economic discussions

The final communiqué highlighted that the international economic climate remains under pressure from ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, the prolonged conflict between Russia and Ukraine, and the escalation of protectionist policies worldwide.

Within the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC) region, economies continue to show resilience despite a slight slowdown. The Committee noted controlled inflation rates, improved fiscal and external balances, and strengthened foreign exchange reserves.

Chad’s GDP growth projected at 5.3% in 2026

At the national level, the CNEF forecasts real GDP growth of 5.3% for 2026, up from 5.1% in 2025. This growth is expected to be driven primarily by the non-oil sector, even as the oil sector faces a projected decline.

The Committee also observed a continued easing of inflationary pressures, with the inflation rate anticipated to drop to 0.5% in 2026 from 2.6% in 2025, signaling an improvement in the macroeconomic framework.

Monetary and banking indicators show positive trends

Members highlighted a significant increase in net foreign assets as of March 2026, alongside growth in money supply and a comfortable level of reserve coverage for import months.

The Chadian banking system and non-bank financial sector demonstrated encouraging performance, with the aggregated bank balance sheets recording a 4.9% year-on-year increase by the end of March 2026.

Budget execution and financial inclusion debated

On public finances, the CNEF reviewed the state budget execution as of June 2026. Discussions also covered the Effective Annual Rate (TEG) report for Q1 2026, findings from audits conducted at banking institutions, and updates on central bank deposit initiatives in regional areas.

Following deliberations, the Committee reaffirmed its commitment to closely monitor economic and financial indicators to uphold macroeconomic stability and bolster the country’s growth trajectory.