BEAC sets deadline for old CFA franc coins
Central African states have one year to exchange old 1 to 500 CFA franc coins for new currency.
The Bank of Central African States (BEAC) has set a one-year deadline for exchanging old 1 to 500 CFA franc coins across the CEMAC region. This decision, made by the UMAC Ministerial Committee, aims to streamline currency circulation. The exchange period begins on November 1, 2026, and concludes on October 31, 2027.
During the first phase, from November 1, 2026, to July 31, 2027, individuals can exchange the old coins at BEAC branches, commercial banks, and microfinance institutions. The second phase, from August 1 to October 31, 2027, limits exchanges to BEAC offices only, with no limit on the amount for individuals and businesses. Commercial banks and microfinance institutions are obligated to accept these coins from the public, regardless of customer status.
After October 31, 2027, the old coins will no longer be redeemable. The BEAC has urged financial intermediaries to establish necessary mechanisms to facilitate the exchange process and prevent citizens from losing the value of their old currency due to lack of information or procedural difficulties. Coins from the 2006 and 2024 series remain legal tender.
Why it mattersCitizens in Equatorial Guinea and other CEMAC countries must exchange old CFA franc coins within a year to avoid losing their value.