(Ecofin Agency) - Trade between Côte d'Ivoire and China saw a 21% increase in 2023, reaching $5.28 billion, according to the Chinese ambassador to Côte d'Ivoire, Wu Jie. Speaking at a press conference in early April, the ambassador cited Chinese customs statistics which indicated that exports from China to Côte d'Ivoire totaled $4.21 billion last year, while imports from the West African nation amounted to $1.07 billion, marking a 10.6% increase from 2022.

These imports were primarily rubber, cocoa, and their derivatives, the Chinese representative said, explaining that "China was the top trading partner of Côte d'Ivoire in 2023, and the trade prospects between the two countries look promising”.

Côte d'Ivoire, which was visited by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during his African tour in mid-January 2024, has emerged as one of Beijing's principal economic allies in West Africa. As a leading member of the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA), Côte d'Ivoire has attracted substantial Chinese investment in key infrastructure projects. Notable initiatives include the Soubré Hydroelectric Power Station, Abidjan's 4th Bridge, the University of Bondoukou, and the Cocoa Processing Plant in Abidjan.