Côte d’Ivoire targets $150 million automotive glass investment from China

Côte d’Ivoire is exploring a potential $150 million investment by Chinese automotive glass manufacturer Xinyi Glass Group, which could lead to the construction of the company’s first African production plant.

The project was discussed during a business mission led by Amichia, Director General of the Centre for Investment Promotion in Côte d’Ivoire (CEPICI), as the country seeks to attract major industrial investors from China.

Xinyi Glass Group is a major global player in automotive glass and holds more than 14% of the global market, according to information shared by CEPICI.

The proposed investment would involve establishing a plant in Côte d’Ivoire to manufacture automotive windshields and mirrors, potentially creating a new industrial value chain in the country.

A detailed market study is planned for October to assess the conditions for the project, including incentives available from the Ivorian government and CEPICI, as well as benefits under Côte d’Ivoire’s investment code.

The discussions will also examine access to electricity and gas, two critical factors for a large-scale industrial facility.

SODEMI, Côte d’Ivoire’s state mining company, could also become involved in identifying mineral resources required for production, including silica and dolomite.

Beyond the $150 million investment, the proposed project could bring technology transfer, industrial skills development and new employment opportunities while helping Côte d’Ivoire integrate further into global automotive supply chains.

For CEPICI, the initiative reflects a broader strategy to attract investments that go beyond capital and contribute to the development of local industrial capacity.

If the feasibility and market studies confirm the project’s viability, Côte d’Ivoire could position itself as a new manufacturing base for automotive glass in Africa.

The October market assessment will therefore be a key step in determining whether the proposed investment can move from discussions to implementation.