The Africa Debate Economic Forum: Emirati Investors Turn Their Attention to Côte d’Ivoire

As part of its strategy to promote and diversify investments in line with the National Development Plan (PND 2021–2025), the Côte d’Ivoire Investment Promotion Centre (CEPICI) participated in the Africa Debate Economic Forum, held in Dubai from September 30 to October 1, 2025. The event, organized by Invest Africa, a leading business platform dedicated to advancing trade and investment across the continent, brought together key institutional stakeholders, international investors, and top economic decision-makers.

The high-level discussions focused on growth and expansion opportunities across Africa and on mechanisms to secure and sustain investments in emerging markets. Speaking at the forum, Madame Solange Amichia, Director-General of CEPICI, highlighted Côte d’Ivoire’s strategic advantages as a premier business destination in West Africa.

During plenary sessions and B2B meetings, Amichia presented the country’s strong economic fundamentals and ongoing reforms designed to enhance competitiveness and attract foreign investment. She emphasized Côte d’Ivoire’s macroeconomic stability, modern infrastructure, and the government’s commitment to making the private sector the engine of national growth, during a special session sponsored by ARISE IIP.

These exchanges reinforced Côte d’Ivoire’s image as West Africa’s new investment hub and a gateway for investors to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Following the discussions, CEPICI reported several expressions of interest from investors — particularly in the agro-industrial sector, including projects for cocoa processing plants, edible oil production, and fish farming facilities. Additional investment interests are expected in the mining, energy, and real estate sectors, with preliminary discussions already underway.

CEPICI’s participation in The Africa Debate is fully aligned with its mission to attract high-impact investments, strengthen strategic partnerships, and deepen economic cooperation between Côte d’Ivoire and the United Arab Emirates.