• GDP: US$24.8 billion.
• Main imports: Consumer goods, foodstuff and capital goods.
• Main exports: Cocoa, coffee, timber, rubber, cotton, palm oil, pineapples and bananas.
• Main trade partners: USA, France, Germany, The Netherlands, Nigeria and Italy.

The timber industry in Côte d’Ivoire has declined from previous levels due to excessive exploitation, although the Government has now limited production in order to protect the remaining forests. A light industrial sector has grown up processing primary agricultural products and produces textiles, chemicals and sugar – again, these are aimed towards export markets. Newly discovered offshore oil and gas deposits will boost the country’s industrial sector as well as meeting future energy needs. Côte d’Ivoire already has an established oil refining operation which, along with cigarette manufacture, forms the main components of the country’s industrial economy. It will also reduce Côte d’Ivoire’s reliance on imported fuel to supplement the hydroelectric installations that are its main source of power. A service sector is gradually developing, centred on tourism, financial services (exploiting the dominant role of the Abidjan stock exchange in the region) and telecommunications. Côte d’Ivoire is one of the more prosperous economies in West Africa, although its recent progress has been undermined by severe political instability and the difficulty in meeting the standards of international donors; the economy contracted by 1.9 per cent in 2004. The country is a member of all the main regional economic organisations, including the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the various bodies associated with the CFA Franc zone.

French is predominantly used in business circles, although executives in larger businesses may speak English. Translators are generally available. Punctuality is expected, although the host may be late. Visiting cards are essential and given to each person met. It is usual for business visitors to be entertained by local hosts in a hotel or restaurant. Businessmen need only wear cotton safari suits. Office hours: Mon-Fri 0730-1200 and 1430-1800, Sat 0800-1200.

In Abidjan, the Palais des Congrès which is part of the Inter-Continental Hotel can host conferences for more than 3000 persons. The political capital Yamoussoukro has a capacity for over 5000. For details, contact the Office Ivoirien du Tourisme et de l’Hôtellerie (see Top Things To See & Do).

Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie de Côte d’Ivoire
01 BP 1399, 6 avenue Joseph Anoma, Abidjan 01, Côte d'Ivoire
Tel: 2033 1600.
Website: www.ccici.org