Characterized as one of the most stable economies in West Africa according to the World Bank, Côte d’Ivoire is a gateway into the West African market.  The country has a growing middle class and rising standard of living.  In 2019, the country’s GDP grew by 7.5 percent. Due to the economic effects of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the GDP growth rate fell to 1.8 percent in 2020.  

The Ivorian government is pursuing a private sector-led growth model.  The government welcomes foreign investment by offering tax incentives to companies choosing to move up the value chain and process commodities and goods domestically.  

• Starting a Business: Côte d’Ivoire made starting a business easier by reorganizing the court clerk’s office where entrepreneurs file their company documents. 
• Getting Credit: Access to credit in Côte d’Ivoire was improved through amendments to the OHADA Uniform Act on Secured Transactions that broaden the range of assets that can be used as collateral (including future assets), extend the security interest to the proceeds of the original asset and introduce the possibility of out-of-court enforcement.
•  Paying Taxes: Côte d’Ivoire eliminated a tax on firms, the contribution for national reconstruction (contribution pour la reconstruction nationale). DB2011 Dealing with Construction Permits: Côte d’Ivoire eased construction permitting by eliminating the need to obtain a preliminary approval.