Mauritania adopts 2027 Finance Law draft

Mauritania has officially adopted the draft 2027 Finance Law, which aims to balance strict budget control with investments in infrastructure and essential services. The law sets a limit on the non-extractive revenue primary deficit to 3.5 percent of the country's nominal GDP, reflecting a broader effort to ensure fiscal responsibility while supporting economic growth.

Budget figures outline fiscal targets

According to a communiqué from the ministerial council published on October 21, net expenditures and loans are projected to reach 145.91 billion ouguiyas (3.63 billion USD) in 2027. This compares to estimated revenues and donations of 152.11 billion ouguiyas, indicating a planned budget surplus of 6.2 billion ouguiyas for the year.

New budgetary rule guides fiscal planning

The draft Finance Law was prepared in line with the Medium-Term Budget Programming Document (DPBMT) 2027-2029, which was adopted by the ministerial council on July 1. This document introduces a new budgetary rule that restricts the non-extractive revenue primary deficit to 3.5 percent of nominal GDP, aiming to ensure long-term fiscal stability.

Focus on infrastructure and essential services

The government plans to continue investing in infrastructure and basic services, including projects in Nouakchott, the capital, and Nouadhibou, a major port city. These programs are intended to improve access to essential services and support economic development across the country.

Economic recovery supports fiscal goals

The draft Finance Law comes amid a period of economic recovery. The World Bank predicts growth of 4.6 percent in 2026, up from 3.6 percent in 2025, driven by increased gas and gold production and a resilient services sector. Public finances are expected to remain strong due to high tax and extractive revenue.

Challenges to budgetary targets remain

Despite these positive trends, the non-extractive revenue primary deficit may exceed the 3.5 percent of GDP limit in 2027. This could be due to rising subsidies and social expenditures aimed at mitigating the impact of higher food and energy prices on the population.