Tensions between the Alliance of Sahel States (AES)—comprising Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso—and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) escalated further as the three junta-led nations announced a 0.5% import duty on all goods originating from ECOWAS member states. Humanitarian aid was the only category exempted from the new tariff.
The decision, announced on Thursday, comes amid a growing economic and political rift between the AES bloc and ECOWAS following the 2023 military coups in each of the three countries, which led to widespread condemnation and sanctions from the regional body.
Initially formed as a joint security alliance, the AES has evolved into an emerging economic bloc with ambitions that now include biometric passports, integrated economic frameworks, and stronger military cooperation. This latest move to levy tariffs on ECOWAS goods underscores the alliance’s intent to further assert economic independence and reduce reliance on West African regional institutions.
Analysts warn that the import duty could disrupt trade flows, increase regional fragmentation, and further complicate diplomatic efforts to reintegrate the AES states back into ECOWAS frameworks. The imposition signals a growing determination by the military regimes to chart a separate political and economic course for the Sahel.
In a joint statement, the AES said the levy aims to generate revenue to fund the alliance’s activities.
The tax, which came into effect on March 28, will disrupt the free trade once enjoyed by all countries in the West African region.
The economic implications could be severe, leading to higher consumer prices, supply chain disruptions and strained regional economic stability.
While it may provide short-term revenue for the junta-led governments, it risks other long-term consequences, including weakened regional integration.