International rating agency Fitch Ratings has granted an exceptional upgrade to Côte d'Ivoire's sovereign rating, raising it from "BB-" to "BB" , with a "stable" outlook. This decision, announced in its latest assessment on Friday, December 12, 2025, propels the country to an unprecedented level, significantly enhancing its attractiveness to global investors.

An upgrade with major implications

This rating upgrade now places Côte d'Ivoire as the second highest-rated economy in sub-Saharan Africa , just behind Botswana. It thus surpasses South Africa, traditionally considered the continent's leading industrial power.

Notably, Fitch took a direct leap, upgrading the rating to "BB" without going through the intermediate stage of "positive outlook." The country is thus just one notch away from the prestigious "Investment Grade" category, reserved for emerging and developed nations.

The foundations of a robust economy

This upgrade recognizes the structural strength of the Ivorian economy and the credibility of its fiscal governance . Fitch Ratings highlighted several key factors:

1. Growth Strength: Growth is estimated to average over the next few years at over 6% , driven by diversification in the oil, gas, mining and agricultural processing sectors.
2. Political Stability: The political environment is considered stable, reinforced by the smooth conduct of the last presidential election.
3. Improvement in Public Finances: The budget deficit has been reduced to the EU threshold of 3% of GDP . Debt sustainability is improving, with the debt-to-GDP ratio expected to decrease from 59.5% in 2024 to 58.2% in 2025 .

A pillar of stability in a tense regional context

In a regional context marked by security crises and financial tensions, this upgrade confirms Côte d'Ivoire as a hub of resilience and a reliable economic partner.

The "stable" outlook associated with the "BB" rating reveals Fitch's confidence in maintaining this positive trajectory. This indicates that the country's performance is not based on one-off factors, but on a structural and sustainable trend .

In conclusion, while several neighbouring nations are seeing their ratings adjusted downwards, this exceptional upgrade consolidates market confidence in the management of Ivorian sovereign debt and in its overall economic trajectory.