Gabon’s overdue government payments reached about $2.05 billion by June 2026, adding pressure on the government to clarify its public finances as it seeks a new financing agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
The arrears rose from approximately $1.87 billion at the end of 2025, according to a government circular reported by Reuters on October 19. The figures remain subject to review, and Gabon has said the findings of its public debt audit could be revised following discussions with the IMF.
External arrears totaled about $748 million in June. Of this amount, roughly $302 million was owed to China Exim Bank and $158 million to multilateral creditors. Gabon has also recorded renewed arrears to the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, part of the World Bank Group, after clearing its previous outstanding payments in March 2025.
The government launched the audit in June to establish a clearer picture of public debt, particularly unpaid domestic bills. Preliminary findings released in September put the country’s total debt and other financial commitments at about $16.3 billion at the end of 2025, below earlier estimates.
Gabon requested a new IMF financing program in March. The government aims to reach a preliminary agreement by the end of 2026, but the timetable is uncertain. A government circular said there was no guarantee that a program would be agreed within the expected timeframe.
After a September mission, the IMF said discussions would continue on public debt, fiscal developments and the government’s policy plans for 2027 ahead of formal program talks.
The financing effort comes as Gabon plans to raise about $1.96 billion on international markets in 2027. Borrowing and debt repayments could limit the government’s room to fund other priorities, making a credible assessment of its obligations important for negotiations with lenders.
The audit may improve transparency, but it does not by itself resolve the country’s financing challenges. A new IMF agreement will depend on further discussions over Gabon’s fiscal position and policy commitments.
