We all know the Ivory Coast (Côte d’Ivoire) is well known for its cocoa and cashew production. But did you know there’s a new story emerging? One of the cash crops, Cotton, is rising to prominence.

Imagine walking through the fields of Ivory Coast, where the vibrant green nature is speckled with pure white blooms of cotton. This scene is a symbol of a nation’s growing potential. The country makes cotton a lucrative investment using its favorable environment and dedicated workforce.

Let’s explore the facts that make cotton lucrative in this West African nation.

Rising Cotton Industry: Ivory Coast is emerging as a key player in cotton production, diversifying its agricultural economy.

Government Support: Strategic initiatives have enhanced productivity and quality, strengthening global competitiveness.

Farmer Empowerment: Farmers benefit from cooperatives, better market access, and improved livelihoods.

Attractive Investment Climate: With strong infrastructure development and favorable policies, the cotton sector offers lucrative opportunities for investors.

The cotton production statistics of the Ivory Coast show significant growth in recent years. The country produced around 328,000 metric tons of cotton in 2020, and the amount rose by 25% to approximately 410,000 metric tons by 2024. This increase can indicate various factors, including favorable weather conditions and improved agricultural practices.

The Ivorian government has actively supported the cotton sector through initiatives that have enhanced cotton productivity. These programs focus on effective seed multiplication and distribution. The government’s efforts have not only increased production but also improved the quality of cotton, making Ivorian cotton more competitive and demandable in the global market.

In the heart of Ivory Coast, in the rural town of Korhogo, lives YAPO, a seasoned cotton farmer. The Yapo family has cultivated cotton for generations. They witness the highs and lows of this labor-intensive crop. In recent years, Yapo’s story has become an example in the Ivorian cotton industry.

Yapo recalls the challenging times when unpredictable weather and poor seed quality made cotton farming difficult. “There were years when the rains did not come, and the production was so low that we barely made enough to survive,” he says. But things started to change when the government introduced new agricultural programs. “The new seeds we received from the government are stronger and produce more cotton. It’s like we’ve been given a new lease on life,” Yapo smiles.

Figure: Korhogo cloth keeps Ivory Coast tradition alive

Yapo’s farm is now part of a cooperative that benefits from better pricing and access to international markets. The cooperative’s success story has drawn the attention of international investors eager to support sustainable cotton production. With the additional income, Yapo has sent his children to school and improved his family’s living conditions. “Cotton has always been in our blood, but now it’s also the key to our future,” he says proudly.

Investing in infrastructure is an important factor in moving the cotton industry forward. France has committed €68.5 million (approximately US$83 million) to develop Ivory Coast’s cotton production capacity. This investment is aimed at building infrastructure. The investment will change the whole supply chain of Ivory Coast’s cotton industry. It will support the entire chain from cultivation to processing and export.

Such investments are crucial for mitigating issues related to deforestation and human rights abuses, which are often linked to cotton production in other regions. By focusing on sustainable practices and ethical production, the Ivory Coast can position itself as a responsible cotton producer on the global stage.

Figure: Workers in the cotton fields of Cote d’Ivoire.

Cotton is not just an agricultural product but a vital economic driver for the Ivory Coast. In 2021, the country’s cotton exports amounted to US$453.42 million, reflecting its importance as a cash crop. Despite a slight dip in exports expected due to increasing domestic demand, the overall outlook remains positive.

The price of cotton is increasing daily. The development of the global cotton market also plays a significant role in shaping Ivory Coast’s cotton industry. The country benefits from favorable global market conditions. Also, the demand for cotton from textile industries worldwide is high. This global demand ensures that Ivorian cotton remains desirable.It promises good returns for investors.

Source: Reuters

Figure: Cotton exporter Benin developing home-grown textile industry

As of mid-2024, the price of cotton in Ivory Coast is around US$0.98 per kilogram, positioning it competitively in the global market. The country’s cotton industry benefits from higher production expectations, driven by favorable global market conditions and national support pricing. The quality of cotton has also seen improvements, thanks to effective seed multiplication and the introduction of higher-quality varieties developed by the National Agricultural Research Agency​​.

Ivory Coast’s economic environment is highly conducive to foreign investments. In 2022, the country attracted USD 1.58 billion in FDI inflows, marking a 15% increase year-on-year and surpassing prepandemic levels​​. The government’s National Plan of Development (PND 2021-2025) aims to make private investment a key driver of economic growth. This includes modernizing infrastructure, facilitating business operations through digital services, and improving the overall business climate​.

Foreign investors enjoy the same opportunities as local businesses, with no general restrictions on foreign ownership. The Ivorian government encourages foreign investment, including in state-owned firms being privatized. However, specific sectors like banking, insurance, health, and law do require particular licenses and associations with local partners​.

Figure: Statistics of cotton production and exports

The story of cotton in the Ivory Coast is not just about economic growth. It is a narrative of transformation and hope. From resilient farmers like Yapo to the strategic initiatives led by the government, every thread in this tapestry is filled with potential and promise.

Ivory Coast’s commitment to improving agricultural practices, enhancing infrastructure, and ensuring sustainable production makes cotton a promising and potentially lucrative investment. With its rich resources and strategic initiatives, the country is well on its way to becoming a significant player in the global cotton market.

As the world continues to demand high-quality, ethically produced cotton, Ivory Coast stands ready to meet this need. Investing in Ivorian cotton is not just about reaping financial rewards; it’s about participating in a journey toward sustainable development and shared prosperity. The future of cotton in the Ivory Coast is bright, promising economic growth and a better quality of life for its people.