Morocco seeks stronger business role in Côte d’Ivoire development plans
The General Confederation of Moroccan Enterprises is stepping up efforts to strengthen the presence of Moroccan companies in Côte d’Ivoire and support the financing of the country’s National Development Program for 2026 to 2030. CGEM President Mehdi Tazi participated in the financing forum for the Ivorian development plan alongside a delegation representing more than 100 Moroccan companies.
Moroccan business leaders joined discussions held during the investor day organized as part of the forum dedicated to financing Côte d’Ivoire’s National Development Program. Mehdi Tazi highlighted the significant role assigned to the private sector in achieving the program’s objectives.
According to Tazi, private companies are expected to contribute more than 70% of the overall financing required for the development program. He said this reflects the central role of private investment in supporting Côte d’Ivoire’s economic transformation.
Growing economic ties
Tazi also emphasized the strength of economic relations between Morocco and Côte d’Ivoire. The West African nation remains one of the leading destinations for Moroccan foreign direct investment in Africa, with investments reaching 1.24 billion dirhams in 2024.
Several Moroccan groups are already active in strategic sectors across Côte d’Ivoire, including finance, telecommunications, agriculture, fertilizers, real estate, infrastructure, energy, pharmaceuticals, and services.
The CGEM president noted that both countries possess strong economic complementarities. He called for accelerating industrial partnerships, joint investments, and collaborative projects between Moroccan and Ivorian operators.
Sectors identified as offering significant opportunities for deeper cooperation include agribusiness, infrastructure, healthcare, tourism, new technologies, and energy.
Focus on partnerships and financing
CGEM reiterated its commitment to supporting the priorities of Côte d’Ivoire’s National Development Program by facilitating business connections, identifying high potential projects, and promoting partnerships capable of generating jobs and added value.
Several meetings between Moroccan companies and Ivorian public and private stakeholders were organized on the sidelines of the forum with the support of the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco in Côte d’Ivoire.
During the event, Mehdi Tazi also met Ahmed Cissé, president of the General Confederation of Enterprises of Côte d’Ivoire. Both sides agreed to revitalize the Morocco Côte d’Ivoire Economic Impetus Group to better align its activities with the priorities of the Ivorian development program.
Tazi also held discussions with Sidi Ould Tah, president of the African Development Bank Group, regarding new financing opportunities for African businesses and guarantee mechanisms designed to support their international expansion. A separate meeting with Nathalie Kouassi Akon, IFC Regional Director for West Africa, focused on mobilizing private investment and supporting major African development projects.
