BCEAO: WAEMU transfers must route via PI-SPI from Nov 2, small ones free

The Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO) will require all interoperable e-money transfers in WAEMU to route through its PI-SPI instant payment platform starting November 2, 2026. Transfers up to 8,000 FCFA (~$13.7) per day become free, while larger ones are capped at a 0.8% fee. Cross-border transfers within the union adopt the same terms on June 1, 2027.

• From Nov 2, 2026, all interoperable WAEMU transfers must go through PI-SPI
• Transfers up to 8,000 FCFA ($13.7) daily are free; above that, fees cap at 0.8%
• Receiving money is free with no limits on amount or number of operations
• Cross-border transfers within WAEMU adopt the new terms on June 1, 2027