West African economic and monetary union : common policies of member countries--press release; staff report; and statement by the executive director for the West African economic and monetary union

The WAEMU region has experienced strong growth over the last five years but vulnerabilities have increased. Public debt is on the rise and external buffers have shrunk. Good progress has been made in upgrading the financial sector regulatory framework but significant pockets of vulnerability remain. The outlook remains positive, provided macroeconomic stability and strong resolve to improve the business environment and promote private investment are maintained. Downside risks stem from a sharper slowdown of economic growth, tighter international financing conditions, delays in implementing fiscal consolidation, sluggish structural reforms as well as a sustained decline in cocoa prices. In addition, security threats remain significant.