A major fire has struck the Ivorian economy. A factory located in the heart of the Yopougon industrial zone was ravaged by flames on Tuesday, December 16, 2025 , around 8 p.m., according to an announcement from the Emergency Police.

The Military Firefighters Group (GSPM) quickly responded to the scene. Currently, teams are still working to bring the blaze under control. Although no official assessment has been released by the authorities, the video shared by the Emergency Police shows the intensity of the fire, suggesting considerable material damage .

It should be noted that the Yopougon industrial zone is a vital economic hub, covering nearly 469 hectares and housing approximately 400 companies.

A wave of disasters: A second incident in 24 hours

This event comes just one day after another devastating fire completely destroyed one of the country's largest supermarkets, China Town, in Bouaké .

Chinatown reduced to ashes

On Monday morning, around 7 a.m., the China Town supermarket, which had just opened a month ago and was located on the road to the Stade de la Paix, in the N'Gattakro district of Bouaké, was engulfed in flames.

According to witnesses, the fire spread very quickly, even affecting adjacent businesses, such as the Bernabé store, which was exposed to intense smoke and heat.

Although the cause of the fire remains undetermined, no loss of life has been reported, which is the only positive aspect of this tragedy. However, the material losses are considered immense.

Official statement from the ministry:

“Very early this morning, we were alerted to a fire at the China Town supermarket, one of the largest in Bouaké. Unfortunately, everything was destroyed by the flames. Thankfully, no lives were lost. We conveyed the condolences of Minister Souleymane Diarrassouba, Minister of Trade and Industry, to the managers and promised them the support of our services. God is watching over them,” declared Mohamed El Hadj Fadiga, representative of the Ministry of Trade and Industry, following the fire in Bouaké.

These two major events within 24 hours underline an increased need for vigilance and fire prevention measures in the country's commercial and industrial infrastructure.