The historic city of Grand-Bassam hosted a crucial workshop on Thursday, April 23, 2026, marking the operationalization of the new Export Platform . This initiative aims to transform the trade landscape between Côte d'Ivoire and its neighbors in the sub-region.

A national ambition driven by the AfCFTA

Representing the Minister of Trade and Industry, Ibrahim Kalil Konaté, technical advisor Gbato Félicien emphasized that this tool is the result of strong political will. The objective is threefold:

1. Promote Ivorian foreign trade.
2. Diversify products intended for export.
3. Strengthen trade with Ghana and other countries in the region.

"This platform reflects Côte d'Ivoire's commitment to maximizing the opportunities offered by the AfCFTA (African Continental Free Trade Area) by further integrating our national actors," Mr. Félicien stated.

Supporting women and young entrepreneurs

The diagnosis is clear: although they represent 70% of cross-border traders , women and young people face major structural obstacles, including access to finance, lack of business information and cumbersome administrative formalization.

After a capacity-building phase, the project is now entering its active phase to remove these barriers.

A strong partnership with TradeMark Africa

Félix Kouakou, country representative of TradeMark Africa , recalled that this collaboration, which began in 2024, supports Côte d'Ivoire's international commitments.

Contrary to popular belief, the aim of this platform is not to reduce the volume of trade, but rather to reduce the costs and delays associated with cross-border formalities, in order to make Ivorian companies more competitive in the regional market.

The event took place in the presence of Clémentine Kassi , President of the National Committee of Women Entrepreneurial Organizations of Côte d'Ivoire for the AfCFTA, testifying to the inclusive importance of this new tool.