• Côte d’Ivoire, Benin agencies sign MoU to boost cross-border investment
• Deal covers information sharing, project support and business matchmaking
• Both economies post strong growth and improved business climates

The Investment Promotion Center in Côte d’Ivoire (CEPICI) and Benin’s Investment and Export Promotion Agency (APIEx) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to encourage investment flows between the two countries.

Signed on Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026, the agreement sets out areas for cooperation, including the sharing of information and best practices on economic and industrial development, the business environment and investment opportunities. It also provides for partner identification and business matchmaking, support for the rollout of investment projects, and the joint organization of trade and investment events.

“Through this agreement, the two institutions intend to raise the visibility of their investor support services, improve service quality, and support regional economic integration,” APIEx said.

Dynamic Economic Growth
 Benin and Côte d’Ivoire are posting strong growth within the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA). The Central Bank of West African States estimates growth at 7.5% for Benin and 6.6% for Côte d’Ivoire in 2025.

Both countries have also performed strongly on business climate indicators within the bloc. In November 2025, Côte d’Ivoire scored 101.5 and Benin 99.8, against a reference average of 100.
 The momentum comes as both governments roll out reforms to improve the business environment and attract investment. In Côte d’Ivoire, measures include a new Investment Code, one-stop shops for businesses, simplified administrative procedures and the launch of the Support Program for the Improvement of the Business Climate (PACA-CI).

Benin has moved to simplify business registration and digitize administrative procedures. It has also adopted legislation on special economic zones and the development of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises.

Lydie Mobio