Regional Integration in the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU): Complementarity or Competition?

This paper analyzes and characterizes the nature of interactions between countries West African Economic Monetary Union (WAEMU) over period 1995–2015. The analysis uses sigma-convergence on one hand Dendrinos-Sonis spatial competition model estimated by SUR method other hand. results show a lack convergence living standards support idea income polarization in space; these also very poorly integrated region with relatively competitive interrelationships. suggests acceleration regional integration WAEMU combined implementation inclusive policies that promote each member’s comparative advantage.