EU-Côte d’Ivoire Trade Reached an Average of CFA 5,027 Billion Between 2020 and 2025

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 9th Côte d’Ivoire-European Union Partnership Dialogue in Abidjan on April 16, 2026, Robert Beugré Mambé stated that trade between Côte d’Ivoire and the European Union averaged CFA 5,027 billion between 2020 and 2025, with a trade surplus of nearly CFA 959 billion in favor of Côte d’Ivoire.

The Prime Minister emphasized that the European Union remains one of Côte d’Ivoire’s leading partners, both in trade and in supporting national development. According to him, the Interim Economic Partnership Agreement has facilitated access for Ivorian products to the European market and strengthened bilateral trade.

Robert Beugré Mambé also highlighted the EU’s role as a major investor in Côte d’Ivoire, noting that its presence contributes to economic transformation, infrastructure modernization, and the creation of sustainable jobs for young people.

The Prime Minister praised the quality of the dialogue between Côte d’Ivoire and the EU, which he said is built on trust, mutual respect, and a shared vision for long-term development.

Addressing this year’s themes of peace and security, as well as the business climate, he said these issues reflect shared priorities. He noted that Côte d’Ivoire continues to focus on peace, economic transformation, and improving living conditions, supported by political stability, peaceful electoral processes, and stronger governance.

He also welcomed the strong cooperation between Côte d’Ivoire and the EU in the areas of security and defense, stressing the need to strengthen these efforts to ensure stability and the well-being of populations.

Regarding the business climate, Robert Beugré Mambé said Côte d’Ivoire continues to implement structural reforms aimed at improving the investment environment and increasing the attractiveness of its economy. These reforms include simplifying administrative procedures, digitalizing public services, modernizing the tax system, improving legal protection for investors, and strengthening transparency and anti-fraud measures.

Finally, he reaffirmed the ambition of President Alassane Ouattara to build a stronger, more dynamic, and more effective partnership with the European Union, while also expanding cooperation to areas such as energy transition, climate change, governance, innovation, development financing, and human capital.