“Made in Côte d’Ivoire, Made for Africa”: Côte d’Ivoire Export Agency Showcases Ivorian Excellence in Algiers

As part of the 4th edition of the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF 2025), the Côte d’Ivoire Export Agency organized the event “Côte d’Ivoire Trade Opportunities” on September 9, 2025, at the Union Side Plenary 1 Pavilion of Safex in Algiers. During the event, its Director General, Kaladji Fadiga, who is also the Ambassador of IATF 2025, invited African and international economic actors to explore the potential of the Ivorian economy and build sustainable partnerships.

In his welcoming remarks, Dr. Kaladji Fadiga highlighted that Côte d’Ivoire currently represents 40% of the GDP and 42% of exports within the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA). He emphasized that Côte d’Ivoire has the most developed industrial base in the Union and serves as a strategic hub—a natural bridge between West Africa and the rest of the world. He praised the diversity and vitality of the Ivorian entrepreneurial fabric.

The Director General stressed the mission of Côte d’Ivoire Export: to promote, develop, and diversify exports with the goal of accelerating the structural transformation of the Ivorian economy. “Our vision is ambitious: to sustainably promote the excellence of Made in Côte d’Ivoire products on international markets,” he declared.

Through comprehensive support—including export capacity diagnostics, skills reinforcement, logistical and legal assistance, promotion, and networking—the agency positions itself as a strategic partner for businesses aiming to expand into regional and global markets.

Addressing an audience made up of institutional leaders, business people, and representatives of professional organizations, Kaladji Fadiga encouraged participants to go beyond mere exhibition and to build concrete synergies: “You are not only invited to discover what Côte d’Ivoire can offer you. Let us think together about what we can build hand in hand to grow our businesses, innovate, and conquer new markets,” he urged.

Looking ahead, he reminded that the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework and trade agreements, including those with Europe, open considerable prospects for Ivorian exporters.

Finally, the Director General called on investors, importers, and institutional partners to take full advantage of this platform to initiate collaborations: “The future of intra-African trade is being written here, now, together,” he concluded, reiterating his now-iconic phrase: “Made in Côte d’Ivoire, Made for Africa.”

Opportunities in Education and Trade

Dr. Benjamin Walker, Director of Market Development, presented the opportunities and strengths of Côte d’Ivoire across several sectors. He also highlighted the dynamic cooperation between Côte d’Ivoire and Algeria, both economically and in education.

Answering a public question about education, Ambassador Voho Sahi of Côte d’Ivoire explained that the country’s education system has long relied on models inherited from colonial history. Now, the focus is on adapting to the real needs of society and the economy. “Our priority is to promote national and African values while integrating new technologies throughout the education system,” said the Ambassador. The goal is to equip Côte d’Ivoire with a qualified and immediately operational workforce, notably through strengthening vocational training.

Trade: Coffee, Rubber, and Cashew Nuts Lead

On the economic front, Ambassador Alphonse Voho Sahi noted that trade between Côte d’Ivoire and Algeria is experiencing notable growth. He revealed that Ivorian coffee, already very popular with Algerian roasters, remains a flagship product. However, he explained that transactions often still pass through international intermediaries—a situation both countries aim to change.

He also mentioned a €100 million agreement signed during the IATF to strengthen exchanges in the electricity sector. Additionally, natural rubber and cashew nuts have become strategic products in bilateral trade, alongside emerging partnerships in cotton and building materials.

A Partnership in the Making

Beyond numbers, the key takeaway is the shared determination of both countries to build direct and balanced trade relations. “The potential is immense. What matters today is working together with trust and determination,” emphasized the Ivorian representative.

With a trained youth, a diversified agricultural sector, and flourishing economic agreements, Côte d’Ivoire aims to position itself as an indispensable partner for Algeria and, more broadly, North Africa.