On Tuesday, 30 June 2026, the Côte d’Ivoire Export Agency, in collaboration with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Côte d’Ivoire, organized a conference on China’s Zero-Tariff Policy and Market Access Opportunities through the China International Import Expo (CIIE) 2026.
The conference brought together several high-level officials, including H.E. Mr. WU Jie, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Côte d’Ivoire; Mr. Baba TOURE, Director General of Foreign Trade, representing the Minister of Trade, Industry and Handicrafts; Dr. Kaladji FADIGA, Director General of the Côte d’Ivoire Export Agency; and Mr. LI Chengyao, Economic Counsellor at the Embassy of China.
In his address, Dr. Kaladji FADIGA emphasized that “opportunities exist, but they only translate into tangible results when businesses are adequately prepared to seize them.” He reaffirmed the Côte d’Ivoire Export Agency’s commitment to supporting Ivorian businesses through capacity building, enhanced compliance with international market requirements, and participation in major international trade fairs.
Participants received a comprehensive presentation on the new measures facilitating African exports’ access to the Chinese market, as well as practical information on participation in the China International Import Expo (CIIE), which will take place from 5 to 10 November 2026 in Shanghai, China.
The Côte d’Ivoire Export Agency also highlighted the significant growth opportunities offered by the Chinese market for Ivorian businesses, provided they are adequately prepared to meet international standards and market requirements.
Côte d’Ivoire’s participation in CIIE 2026 is part of this broader strategy. The Ivorian Pavilion will showcase the country’s flagship export sectors, including cocoa and cocoa-based products, cashew nuts, coffee, natural rubber, shea products, attiéké, and dried mango, with the objective of promoting the Made in Côte d’Ivoire brand, expanding national exports, and fostering new business partnerships with Chinese companies.
To ensure a successful participation, the Côte d’Ivoire Export Agency will soon launch a Call for Expressions of Interest to select the companies that will join the official Ivorian delegation. Selected businesses will benefit from a comprehensive support package, including pre-event capacity-building sessions, a dedicated exhibition space within the Ivorian Pavilion, facilitated B2B meetings with Chinese buyers, and logistical support covering transportation, accommodation, and catering.
This initiative is fully aligned with the Côte d’Ivoire Export Agency’s mission to enhance the competitiveness of Ivorian businesses, support their international expansion, and strengthen the global visibility of the Made in Côte d’Ivoire brand.
The conference also underscored the strategic importance of the forthcoming “Made in Côte d’Ivoire” Label, whose development has been entrusted by the Government of Côte d’Ivoire to the Côte d’Ivoire Export Agency. As a guarantee of origin, quality and competitiveness, the label will support Ivorian businesses in their internationalization efforts while enhancing the visibility and recognition of Côte d’Ivoire’s products in global markets.
