By African View Staff Writer August 2025
Senegal’s Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has rolled out a sweeping set of reforms aimed at revitalizing the economy, tightening public finances, and cracking down on financial inefficiencies.
At the heart of the new plan: taxes on online gaming and tobacco, regulation of digital advertising, and a long-awaited adjustment to car import rules for the diaspora.
A key move is the regularization of contracts at Senelec, the national electricity company, to curb technical fraud and recover an estimated 90 billion FCFA in lost revenue.
The government will also introduce fees for digital services and advertising, part of a broader strategy to ensure fair contributions from the booming audiovisual and telecom sectors.
To generate additional funds, taxes will be applied to online betting platforms and tobacco products, changes expected to yield over 100 billion FCFA.
Digital ads, including those on social media and streaming platforms, will also face new levies according to the new regulation.
In a nod to the Senegalese diaspora, the government will raise the age limit for imported vehicles, a longstanding request from overseas citizens. The move aims to stimulate commerce and reduce barriers for returning migrants.
“These reforms are vital for our survival and sovereignty,” Sonko stated during the announcement. “We’re asking the nation to rally behind this plan, it’s time for bold choices.”
With this roadmap, Senegal is positioning itself as a model for fiscal reform and post-pandemic resilience in West Africa.
Source: africanews.com
Comments