Table of Contents
- Overview of Mali’s Tax System in 2025
- Key Tax Reforms Introduced for 2025
- Current Tax Rates: Individuals and Businesses
- Important Compliance Requirements and Deadlines
- Tax Filing Procedures and Digital Innovations
- Major Challenges: Evasion, Enforcement, and Transparency
- Sector-Specific Taxation: Mining, Agriculture, and Trade
- International Tax Treaties and Cross-Border Implications
- Statistical Snapshot: Revenue Trends and Economic Impact
- Future Outlook: Predicted Tax Policy Shifts Through 2030
- Sources & References
Overview of Mali's Tax System in 2025
Mali’s tax system in 2025 continues to be shaped by both domestic reforms and regional harmonization efforts, particularly under the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU). The primary sources of government revenue are direct and indirect taxes, including corporate income tax, personal income tax, value-added tax (VAT), and various customs duties. The Ministry of Economy and Finance oversees tax policy and collection, with the Direction Générale des Impôts (DGI) serving as the principal tax authority.
The standard corporate income tax (CIT) rate remains at 30%, while the personal income tax is progressive, ranging from 3% to 40% based on income brackets. The VAT rate stands at 18%, with certain basic goods and services either zero-rated or exempt to cushion lower-income households. In 2024, the government implemented new measures to broaden the tax base, including enhanced digital reporting requirements and stricter enforcement of tax identification numbers for businesses and individuals. These changes aim to improve compliance and align with regional fiscal standards set by WAEMU (Ministère de l’Economie et des Finances).
Tax compliance remains a significant challenge, with estimates indicating that Mali’s tax-to-GDP ratio hovers around 15%, below the WAEMU benchmark of 20%. To address this gap, the authorities have prioritized the modernization of tax administration, investment in digital infrastructure, and intensified taxpayer education campaigns. As of 2025, electronic filing and payment systems are increasingly mandatory for medium and large enterprises, while small businesses are gradually being integrated into the digital system (Direction Générale des Impôts).
Recent legal developments include the 2023 revision of the General Tax Code, which introduced anti-avoidance rules, clarified transfer pricing obligations, and updated penalty regimes for late filing or tax evasion. The government also continues to negotiate tax treaties to prevent double taxation and encourage foreign direct investment. Customs duties and excise taxes, especially on fuel and tobacco, remain important revenue sources, with ongoing efforts to combat smuggling and informal trade at border posts.
Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, Mali’s tax policy is expected to focus on further digitalization, streamlining exemptions, and improving taxpayer services to enhance voluntary compliance. The government’s medium-term strategy targets a gradual increase in the tax-to-GDP ratio, balancing revenue mobilization with the need to foster economic recovery and maintain social stability (Ministère de l’Economie et des Finances).
Key Tax Reforms Introduced for 2025
Mali has embarked on significant tax reforms entering 2025, reflecting its commitment to enhancing domestic revenue mobilization and aligning with international standards. The government’s principal objectives are broadening the tax base, improving compliance, and fostering a more transparent and efficient tax administration.
A central reform for 2025 is the implementation of updates to the General Tax Code, which came into effect at the start of the year. These changes focus on rationalizing tax rates, simplifying procedures, and integrating digital solutions for tax declarations and payments. The General Directorate of Taxes (DGI) has expanded its e-services portal, allowing for online filing and payment of Value Added Tax (VAT), corporate income tax, and personal income tax, aimed at reducing compliance burdens and curbing tax evasion (Direction Générale des Impôts).
For businesses, the 2025 reforms introduced adjustments to the corporate income tax regime. The standard corporate income tax rate remains at 30%, but new incentives target priority sectors such as agriculture, renewable energy, and manufacturing. Qualifying investments in these areas benefit from tax credits and accelerated depreciation schedules, part of Mali’s broader strategy to diversify its economy and attract foreign direct investment (Ministère de l’Économie et des Finances).
VAT administration has also been overhauled. The threshold for VAT registration has been raised to better capture medium and large enterprises while exempting more micro-enterprises from compliance obligations. At the same time, the VAT credit refund process has been streamlined, reducing refund times and improving liquidity for exporters.
On the personal income tax front, Mali has adjusted tax brackets to account for inflation and cost-of-living increases. The reforms introduce enhanced deductions for dependents and education expenses, providing relief to lower and middle-income households.
Enforcement measures have also been strengthened. The DGI has received expanded audit powers and increased resources for taxpayer education and support. Penalties for non-compliance have been clarified and, in some cases, stiffened, signaling a firmer stance against tax evasion. The reforms are closely aligned with commitments under the IMF-supported Extended Credit Facility program, which emphasizes domestic resource mobilization (Banque Centrale des États de l'Afrique de l'Ouest).
Looking ahead, the outlook for Mali’s tax system is one of continued modernization and digitalization. The government has announced plans to further leverage technology for risk-based audits and expand taxpayer self-service options, with the goal of raising the tax-to-GDP ratio and ensuring sustainable public finances over the coming years.
Current Tax Rates: Individuals and Businesses
As of 2025, Mali’s tax regime for individuals and businesses is governed primarily by the General Tax Code (“Code Général des Impôts”), which is revised periodically to align with fiscal strategies and economic prospects. The tax system encompasses various direct and indirect taxes, with compliance overseen by the Direction Générale des Impôts (DGI), under the Ministry of Economy and Finance.
Individual Income Tax
Residents in Mali are subject to personal income tax (“Impôt sur le Revenu des Personnes Physiques” or IRPP) on their worldwide income, while non-residents are taxed only on income sourced within Mali. The IRPP is calculated using a progressive rate structure:
- Up to XOF 500,000: 0%
- XOF 500,001 to XOF 1,000,000: 10%
- XOF 1,000,001 to XOF 2,000,000: 15%
- XOF 2,000,001 to XOF 4,000,000: 20%
- Above XOF 4,000,000: 30%
Additional social contributions and specific withholding taxes may apply to certain types of income (such as dividends, interest, and certain professional fees) at rates between 10% and 18%. The government has maintained these rates through the 2024 Finance Law, with only minor adjustments to thresholds and exemptions, focusing on administrative simplification and digitalization of tax filing processes (Direction Générale des Impôts).
Corporate Taxation
Companies in Mali are subject to corporate income tax (“Impôt sur les Sociétés” or IS) at a standard rate of 30%. Mining companies, under specific investment codes, may be subject to reduced or negotiated rates. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) can opt for a simplified tax regime (“régime du réel simplifié”), which allows for flat-rate taxation under certain turnover thresholds. Branches of foreign companies are taxed at the same rates as resident entities.
- Minimum lump-sum tax (Impôt Minimum Forfaitaire): XOF 300,000 per year for companies, irrespective of profits.
- Withholding tax on services provided by non-residents: 18% on payments abroad.
Value-Added Tax (VAT)
VAT is levied at a standard rate of 18% on goods and services, with some basic products and exports being zero-rated. Registration for VAT is mandatory for businesses with annual turnover above XOF 50 million (Direction Générale des Impôts).
Outlook and Compliance
The government is expected to continue modernizing tax administration via e-filing and digital payment platforms, aiming to increase compliance. The 2025 budget plan projects a moderate increase in tax revenue driven by improved compliance and economic recovery, as outlined by the Ministère de l’Economie et des Finances. Tax rates are expected to remain stable, with possible targeted incentives to support SMEs and key sectors.
Important Compliance Requirements and Deadlines
Mali’s tax compliance environment is governed primarily by the General Tax Code (Code Général des Impôts) and overseen by the Direction Générale des Impôts. The tax year in Mali aligns with the calendar year, running from January 1st to December 31st. For 2025 and the subsequent years, both businesses and individuals must adhere to several statutory tax obligations, including registration, filing, payment, and documentation requirements.
- Corporate Income Tax (Impôt sur les Sociétés): All resident companies and permanent establishments of foreign entities are required to file annual corporate income tax returns. The filing deadline is typically March 31st of the year following the tax year (Direction Générale des Impôts). Advance tax payments are often due throughout the year, generally in quarterly installments.
- Personal Income Tax (Impôt sur le Revenu des Personnes Physiques): Employers must withhold personal income tax on salaries and remit it monthly. Annual personal income tax returns (where required) are due by March 31st of the following year (Direction Générale des Impôts).
- Value-Added Tax (TVA): Entities subject to VAT must file periodic VAT returns, most commonly on a monthly basis. VAT declarations and payments are due by the 15th of the month following the reporting period (Direction Générale des Impôts).
- Other Taxes: Additional compliance requirements exist for business license tax (patente), property taxes, and various sector-specific levies. Deadlines for these obligations vary, but many are annual with deadlines in the first quarter (Direction Générale des Impôts).
- Documentation and Record Keeping: Taxpayers must retain supporting documentation (invoices, payroll records, contracts, etc.) for at least ten years, as specified by the tax authorities, to facilitate audits or inspections.
Recent reforms have emphasized electronic filing and payment systems to improve compliance and efficiency. For 2025 and beyond, the government continues to strengthen digital platforms for tax declarations and payments, with mandates for certain taxpayer categories to use the online portal (Direction Générale des Impôts). Penalties for late filing, underpayment, or non-compliance remain significant, underscoring the importance of timely and accurate fulfillment of all tax obligations. Ongoing updates and compliance guidance are published by the tax authority, and taxpayers are encouraged to consult these resources regularly.
Tax Filing Procedures and Digital Innovations
In 2025, Mali’s tax administration continues to implement significant reforms to modernize tax filing procedures and promote digital innovation. The General Directorate of Taxes (Direction Générale des Impôts) has prioritized the digitalization of tax services to enhance compliance, transparency, and efficiency. This shift is in line with Mali’s broader “Programme de Réforme de la Gestion des Finances Publiques” (PREFIP), aiming to strengthen fiscal governance and tax collection.
The principal tax filing procedures in Mali require both individuals and businesses to register with the tax authority and obtain a tax identification number (NIF). Taxpayers must file annual income tax returns by March 31st of each year for the previous fiscal period. Corporate tax declarations, including the “Impôt sur les Sociétés” (IS), must also be submitted by this deadline. VAT-registered entities are obligated to file monthly returns, with payments due by the 15th of the following month. Non-compliance can result in penalties and interest charges, which have been strictly enforced since the adoption of the revised General Tax Code in 2022 (Direction Générale des Impôts – General Tax Code).
A major leap in recent years is the rollout of the “e-Impôt” platform, which facilitates electronic registration, filing, and payment of taxes. By 2025, the adoption rate of digital filing has surpassed 60% among medium and large enterprises, while efforts are ongoing to expand access for small businesses and individuals. The e-Impôt portal allows taxpayers to submit declarations, download payment receipts, and communicate with tax officials remotely, reducing administrative burdens and opportunities for corruption. The platform is supported by ongoing capacity-building initiatives for both tax officials and taxpayers, as documented in recent annual reports (Direction Générale des Impôts – Rapport Annuel 2023).
Looking ahead, the Malian government plans to further integrate digital solutions, including real-time tax account monitoring and mobile payment options, to improve service delivery and boost voluntary compliance. Legislative initiatives are under review to mandate e-filing for more taxpayer categories and to streamline audit processes using data analytics. These innovations are expected to support Mali’s goal of increasing the tax-to-GDP ratio from the current 14.5% to at least 17% by 2027, in line with West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) benchmarks (Ministère de l’Economie et des Finances).
Major Challenges: Evasion, Enforcement, and Transparency
Mali faces persistent challenges in tax evasion, enforcement, and transparency which continue to impact domestic revenue mobilization as of 2025. The informal sector, representing more than 60% of economic activity, remains largely outside the tax net, resulting in significant revenue losses and complicating the state’s ability to finance public services. The Ministère de l’Économie et des Finances has identified tax evasion and avoidance—especially among medium and large enterprises—as a major impediment to fiscal capacity.
Legislative reforms in recent years have aimed to strengthen tax compliance. The 2023 revision to the General Tax Code increased penalties for non-compliance and introduced new reporting obligations for corporate taxpayers. Despite these measures, enforcement is hampered by limited administrative capacity, outdated IT infrastructure, and corruption risks in some tax offices. The Direction Générale des Impôts (DGI) has been implementing a digitalization agenda, including the gradual rollout of online tax declarations and electronic payments, with plans to expand coverage to more taxpayers in 2025.
Transparency remains a concern. Mali is a member of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), and recent EITI reports have highlighted improvements in revenue disclosure, particularly in the mining sector. However, opaque tax exemptions, discretionary incentives, and gaps in beneficial ownership information continue to obscure the true tax base and undermine public trust. The EITI Mali steering committee has called for the full publication of mining contracts and comprehensive reporting of all tax revenues by 2026.
Key statistics illustrate the scope of the challenge: according to the Ministère de l’Économie et des Finances, the tax-to-GDP ratio in Mali remains below 15%, well under the 20% minimum recommended by the African Union for sustainable development. The DGI reported a tax compliance rate of approximately 57% in 2024, with significant disparities between sectors and regions.
Looking ahead, Mali’s 2025-2027 fiscal strategy prioritizes modernization of tax administration, expanded taxpayer education, and international cooperation on information exchange. The government aims to increase the tax-to-GDP ratio by at least two percentage points by 2027. However, success will depend on sustained investment in enforcement capacity, minimizing discretion in tax administration, and building greater transparency in fiscal operations.
Sector-Specific Taxation: Mining, Agriculture, and Trade
Mali’s sector-specific taxation, especially in mining, agriculture, and trade, is a crucial component of the country’s fiscal landscape. The mining industry, which is predominantly gold-driven, is subject to a tailored tax regime aiming to balance state revenue generation with sectoral competitiveness. The 2019 mining code, which remains effective through 2025, introduced significant updates. Mining companies are subject to a corporate income tax (IS) rate of 30%, royalties on gold production (3%–6% depending on output), and a range of permit fees and local taxes. Additionally, the government reserves a 10% free carried interest in all new mining projects, with the option to acquire up to 20% equity in significant projects. These legal provisions are enforced by the Direction Générale des Impôts and the Direction Générale des Douanes.
Compliance in the mining sector has been under scrutiny, with ongoing reforms aimed at improving transparency and revenue collection. Mali remains a member of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), and the government has committed to publishing contracts and regular revenue reports, which is expected to enhance compliance and investor confidence in the next few years (EITI).
Agriculture, which supports a majority of Mali’s population, benefits from a range of tax incentives and exemptions. Agricultural inputs and equipment are typically zero-rated or exempt from value-added tax (VAT), and certain agribusiness investments enjoy reduced customs duties and tax holidays under the Investment Code. The Direction Générale des Impôts provides detailed lists of eligible goods and compliance requirements. While informal activity remains widespread, the government continues to push for formalization and improved tax collection through digitalization and outreach.
Trade taxation in Mali is shaped by its membership in the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The country applies the WAEMU Common External Tariff (CET), which standardizes customs duties across member states. VAT is levied at a standard rate of 18% on most goods and services, with reduced rates or exemptions for essential goods. Customs administration is being modernized to streamline border processes and enhance compliance, as evidenced by systems upgrades and ongoing procedural reforms by the Direction Générale des Douanes.
Looking forward to 2025 and beyond, Mali’s sector-specific tax framework is expected to evolve in response to fiscal pressures, regional integration, and demands for transparency. Mining may see further adjustments to royalty rates or equity participation rules, while agriculture and trade could benefit from expanded incentives and digital compliance tools. Ongoing reforms aim to broaden the tax base, improve transparency, and foster sustainable sectoral growth.
International Tax Treaties and Cross-Border Implications
Mali’s approach to international tax treaties and cross-border taxation is shaped by its commitment to mobilize revenue and comply with evolving global standards, amid increasing cross-border economic activity. As of 2025, Mali is a member of the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU), which harmonizes certain tax policies among member states, and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which influences regional tax cooperation and tariff alignment.
Mali has entered into a limited number of bilateral double taxation agreements (DTAs), notably with France, Senegal, and the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) countries. These treaties are designed to avoid double taxation of income and provide mechanisms for dispute resolution, exchange of information, and mutual assistance in tax collection. They also typically specify reduced withholding tax rates on dividends, interest, and royalties paid to residents of treaty countries. Mali’s tax treaties can be accessed and reviewed via the Direction Générale des Impôts.
Cross-border implications for businesses operating in Mali are primarily governed by the General Tax Code, which incorporates international transfer pricing rules and mandates arm’s length pricing for transactions between related parties. The tax administration has increased its focus on transfer pricing compliance, requiring documentation and justifications for intercompany transactions, especially for subsidiaries of multinational groups. The Direction Générale des Impôts has issued guidance on documentation requirements and penalties for non-compliance, aligning with broader efforts to meet OECD BEPS (Base Erosion and Profit Shifting) standards, despite Mali not being an OECD member.
In terms of cross-border VAT, Mali applies VAT on services consumed within its territory, including those provided by non-residents. Non-resident companies providing digital or consulting services to Malian clients may be required to register for VAT, depending on the nature and frequency of transactions. Customs duties and excise taxes continue to be aligned with WAEMU’s Common External Tariff, which facilitates intra-regional trade but imposes standard rates on goods imported from outside the region (Direction Générale des Douanes).
Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, Mali is expected to further strengthen its international tax cooperation, particularly in the areas of information exchange and anti-avoidance measures. The government has signaled its intention to negotiate additional DTAs and to enhance cross-border enforcement capacity, reflecting ongoing pressures to increase domestic resource mobilization and comply with international standards. Taxpayers engaged in cross-border operations are advised to monitor legislative updates and maintain robust documentation to ensure compliance in this evolving environment (Ministère de l’Économie et des Finances).
Statistical Snapshot: Revenue Trends and Economic Impact
Mali’s tax system plays a pivotal role in financing public services and supporting economic development. As of 2025, tax revenues continue to be a crucial part of government income, despite persistent challenges in collection efficiency and compliance. The Ministère de l’Économie et des Finances du Mali reported that tax revenues accounted for approximately 14.2% of GDP in 2024, with projections for gradual growth in the next few years, contingent on stability and improvements in tax administration.
The country’s main sources of tax revenue include the Value Added Tax (VAT), corporate income tax, personal income tax, and customs duties. VAT remains the most significant contributor, representing over 40% of total tax receipts. Notably, the government has implemented measures to broaden the tax base and reduce informality, such as digitizing tax filing and payment systems through the Direction Générale des Impôts. These steps are designed to enhance compliance and address Mali’s historically large informal sector, which is estimated to account for over 50% of economic activity.
Despite these efforts, the tax-to-GDP ratio in Mali remains below the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) target of 20%. This gap is driven by factors such as limited administrative resources, widespread informality, and challenges in enforcing compliance, especially in remote regions. The Assemblée Nationale du Mali has recently considered legislative amendments aimed at modernizing tax laws and increasing penalties for evasion. In 2023 and 2024, Mali intensified audit activities and strengthened cooperation with the customs authority to curb smuggling and under-invoicing at borders.
Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, the government’s fiscal policy aims to boost domestic resource mobilization to support infrastructure, education, and healthcare. The national budget framework for 2025-2027, as presented by the Ministère de l’Économie et des Finances du Mali, forecasts incremental increases in tax revenue, targeting a tax-to-GDP ratio of 15% by 2027. Achieving this will depend on continued reforms, investment in tax administration technology, and efforts to formalize the economy. The trajectory of tax revenue will also be influenced by Mali’s macroeconomic stability, external factors, and ongoing security challenges.
Future Outlook: Predicted Tax Policy Shifts Through 2030
Looking ahead to 2030, Mali’s tax landscape is poised for gradual transformation, shaped by domestic fiscal needs and external pressures for modernization. The government, in collaboration with international partners, is expected to continue reforms aimed at enhancing tax revenue mobilization, increasing transparency, and broadening the tax base. These initiatives align with Mali’s commitments under the International Monetary Fund (IMF) program and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS) framework, which stress the importance of improving tax collection and combating tax avoidance.
Key policy shifts anticipated by 2030 include:
- Tax Digitalization: Following the 2022-2025 Strategic Plan of the Direction Générale des Impôts (DGI), Mali is expected to accelerate the digitalization of tax administration. This includes expanding online tax filing and payment systems, strengthening electronic taxpayer identification, and deploying advanced data analytics to detect non-compliance. These steps aim to reduce the large informal sector and improve voluntary compliance.
- Broadening the Tax Base: With tax-to-GDP ratio hovering around 14.5% in 2023, well below the 20% WAEMU benchmark, Mali faces pressure to widen its tax base. Likely measures may include gradual reduction of tax exemptions, bringing more informal businesses into the formal sector, and reviewing sector-specific incentives, particularly in mining and telecommunications (Ministère de l’Economie et des Finances).
- Indirect Tax Adjustments: The government is expected to align value-added tax (VAT) rates and excise duties with regional standards. Discussions are ongoing within the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU/UEMOA) to harmonize indirect taxation, which could lead to changes in VAT rates and expanded coverage of excisable goods.
- Focus on Extractive Industries: Mali’s reliance on gold exports means the mining sector remains a target for enhanced revenue mobilization. Revisions to the mining code and royalties are likely, aligning with international best practices and responding to fluctuating commodity prices.
- International Cooperation: Mali is expected to intensify exchange of information and enforcement against cross-border tax evasion, following OECD and WAEMU guidelines.
Implementation of these reforms faces challenges, including political instability, resource limitations, and persistent informality. Nevertheless, the direction is clear: Mali’s tax system is set to become more digital, transparent, and aligned with regional and global standards through 2030, supporting fiscal sustainability and economic development.
