Morocco and Côte d'Ivoire boost economic partnership

Thursday 26 March 2026 - 15:40

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco and Côte d'Ivoire boost economic partnership

Omar Hejira, Morocco's secretary of state for foreign trade, visited Abidjan to meet Ivorian public and private sector leaders. The talks aimed to strengthen bilateral trade and advance balanced South-South cooperation focused on mutual development. This effort aligns with Morocco's 2025-2027 foreign trade program and high-level initiatives targeting West Africa, especially Côte d'Ivoire.

Hejira addressed leaders from the General Confederation of Côte d'Ivoire Enterprises, Côte d'Ivoire Export, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Investment Promotion Center. He praised the historic ties based on mutual respect and solidarity but pointed out untapped potential in current trade volumes. He called for diversifying exports, pursuing new opportunities, and balancing exchanges through sustainable investments.

The official highlighted the African Continental Free Trade Area as a key opportunity. Morocco and Côte d'Ivoire share responsibility for building an integrated African market. In meetings with Ivorian Minister Delegate Adama Dosso, Hejira announced concrete steps, including a business forum in Casablanca in June and ongoing work by the Economic Impulse Group.

Both sides agreed to launch a biennial fair in Fès to promote Ivorian products. Hejira also urged updates to the bilateral legal framework to complement African free trade benefits. Ivorian private sector representatives welcomed Morocco's contributions to African economic growth, particularly in Côte d'Ivoire.

They expressed commitment to deeper cooperation in strategic areas such as agribusiness, fertilizers, infrastructure, and financial services. Moroccan chambers of commerce and the General Confederation of Enterprises attended the visit. The two nations seek to turn their longstanding partnership into a driver of shared growth and regional integration.