On Friday, September 25, 2026, the Côte d’Ivoire Export Agency held the 15th session of “Export Fridays,” dedicated to a major challenge for companies engaged in international trade.

Under the theme “Which Incoterm to Choose to Secure Your Export Operations in the Context of the AfCFTA,” this session took place against the backdrop of intensifying intra-African trade. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) offers new opportunities for Ivorian companies seeking access to African markets. However, this expansion is accompanied by a greater need for expertise in commercial, logistical, and contractual operations.

Understanding the Implications of Choosing an Incoterm.

In an international trade transaction, an Incoterm helps define the allocation of obligations between the seller and the buyer, the costs associated with transportation and delivery, and the point at which risk is transferred.

An inappropriate choice can thus expose the company to additional costs, contractual misunderstandings, disputes, or even logistical and commercial risks. For exporting SMEs, mastering these rules is therefore a key tool for better anticipating costs, clarifying responsibilities, and securing their transactions.

Drawing on the expertise of Mr. Marc Mobio LOBA, Senior Financial Services Administrator and Technical Advisor to the Director General of the Côte d’Ivoire Export Agency, participants were able to deepen their understanding of Incoterms and better grasp their implications regarding costs, transportation, insurance, liabilities, and the transfer of risk.

A resolutely practical approach.

This 15th session emphasized a practical approach, enabling companies to apply the concepts discussed to their own export realities. The discussions thus provided a better understanding of the criteria to consider when selecting an Incoterm based on the nature of the product, the mode of transport, the destination, and the company’s logistical capabilities.

The goal was also to help participants better identify errors that could result from choosing or using an Incoterm incorrectly, and to provide them with useful guidelines for their quotes, contracts, and commercial documents.

Better capitalizing on the opportunities offered by the AfCFTA.

Beyond a technical understanding of Incoterms, this session underscored the importance for Ivorian companies to build their capacity in order to take full advantage of the opportunities offered by African markets.

Through the “Les Vendredis de l’Export” program, the Côte d’Ivoire Export Agency continues its mission to support Ivorian companies by providing them with knowledge and practical tools to enhance their competitiveness and approach regional and international markets with greater confidence.