Markets
Doing business in Côte d'Ivoire
5.36° N · 4.01° W
Côte d'Ivoire is the largest economy of the UEMOA zone and the world's leading cocoa producer. Its economic capital, Abidjan, hosts one of West Africa's main ports and a large share of the region's corporate headquarters. Foreign investors register through CEPICI and operate under OHADA business law and the CFA franc.
Key facts
- Economic capital
- Abidjan
- Political capital
- Yamoussoukro
- Currency
- West African CFA franc (XOF)
- Leading exports
- World's largest producer of cocoa and of raw cashew nuts
- Investment agency
- CEPICI (Investment Promotion Centre)
- Business law
- OHADA, UEMOA, ECOWAS member
Côte d'Ivoire has been one of Africa's fastest-growing economies for more than a decade. Abidjan is a regional business centre, its port serves landlocked neighbours such as Burkina Faso and Mali, and its consumer market is among the most developed in West Africa.
For many of our clients, it is the natural first market after Morocco: French-speaking, connected to Casablanca by direct flights, and home to major Moroccan banks and companies.
Sectors with momentum
- Agro-processing
- Local processing of cocoa, cashew, rubber and palm oil is a national priority, with opportunities for equipment and know-how.
- Construction and real estate
- Urban growth in Abidjan and secondary cities is driving housing, offices and infrastructure.
- Energy
- Power generation, distribution and new offshore oil and gas discoveries.
- Consumer goods and distribution
- A large urban middle class and modern retail chains, with Abidjan as a regional distribution hub.
How we help here
Assess
A market study for your sector in Côte d'Ivoire.
Connect
Meetings with distributors, buyers and partners in Abidjan.
Establish
Company setup, representation and growth into neighbouring countries.
Frequently asked questions
How do I set up a company in Côte d'Ivoire?
Company creation is handled through the CEPICI one-stop shop in Abidjan. Most foreign investors choose an SARL or an SA under OHADA law. We coordinate the process with trusted local professionals.
Why choose Côte d'Ivoire over other West African markets?
Its economy is the largest in the UEMOA zone, Abidjan is a regional hub for logistics and headquarters, and its consumer market is deep. For some sectors, Senegal or another country may suit better, so we compare them for your project.
Is Côte d'Ivoire connected to Morocco?
Closely. There are direct flights between Casablanca and Abidjan, and several Moroccan banking, insurance and industrial groups operate in the country.