Benin: State mandates authorization to replace local products with imports

Beninese administrations, institutions, and other public entities must now prioritize locally manufactured products listed in the Reference Price Directory. This rule stems from a circular issued on September 4, 2026, by the Ministry of Economy and Finance, as communicated by the Agency for the Development of Small and Medium Enterprises (ADPME).

The measure primarily regulates the use of imports when a local equivalent is included on the official list. In such cases, replacing a Beninese product with an imported one requires explicit prior authorization from the Minister of Economy and Finance.

The e-Reference Price Directory published on September 13 the “List of Locally Manufactured Products – Version of September 4, 2026.” This list is linked to version 26.3 of the framework used for government procurement.

The products in question include cereals and derivatives, such as rice, gari, corn, and fonio, oils and other oilseeds, juices and waters, hygiene products, textiles, school and office furniture, as well as various construction materials.

The list also encompasses goods intended directly for public services, such as benches, cabinets, and shelving, along with uniforms and attire. Selected products must be locally manufactured and comply with the technical specifications and quality requirements outlined in the Reference Price Directory.

The circular targets purchases made from local artisans, production units, and authorized businesses. The obligation to prioritize these products must be considered from the expression of need through to the receipt of the order.

The official list may be updated in the Reference Price Directory. The version currently published by the Ministry of Finance is dated September 4, 2026, and was made available online on September 13.