Mali has achieved a major milestone in modernizing its official documents with the launch of the new E-AES biometric passport.
This initiative not only enhances travel security but also signals a strategic shift in technical partnerships, replacing the French company Idemia with the Chinese group Emptech.
The official launch ceremony was held on Monday, October 27, 2025, at the Bamako Passport Processing Center, chaired by Minister of Security and Civil Protection, Major General Daoud Aly Mohammedine. He stressed that the innovation is aimed at strengthening the security of international travel and simplifying administrative procedures for Malian citizens.
The new travel document is compliant with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards. It incorporates an electronic chip containing the holder’s fingerprints and photograph, alongside advanced security technologies designed to combat fraud and counterfeiting.
The new passport’s production marks a significant governmental decision: the termination of collaboration with Idemia (France) and the selection of Emptech (Emperor Technology Co., Ltd), a Chinese company specializing in electronic identity solutions. Police Comptroller General Cheick Keita hailed the move as “a major step forward towards Mali’s regained sovereignty,” reflecting the authorities’ priority on securing technological independence and local data management.
The passport prominently features the inscription E-AES, a reference to the Confederation of Sahel States (Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger). The authorities are presenting the document as a symbol of administrative and technological integration between the member countries of the E-AES area.
The first passports were handed over in Bamako, with recipients praising the speed of the process. While old passports remain valid until their expiration date, all new applications will now be issued in the secure E-AES format. The National Police Directorate General is expected to publish the full submission procedures and required document list in the coming days.
MD/te/Sf/fss/abj/APA