Guinea’s MPC lowered its benchmark interest by 50 bps to 11.0%. Still, the committee projects the inflation rate to rise to approximately 7% by year-end from 6.0% in July, while officials believe potential risks could be offset by the Guinean franc’s appreciation related to the reintegration of mining revenue and enhancements in road and energy infrastructures. The nation’s budget deficit has expanded by 0.9% of GDP in Q2 2023, while the trade balance experienced a surplus of USD 1.4 bln due to increased bauxite exports.