Türkiye boosts investment in Ivory Coast amid economic expansion

Ambassador Deniz Erdogan Barim said on Monday that the Turkish business community is significantly expanding its presence in Ivory Coast, with bilateral trade volume doubling to $1.5 billion and approximately 100 entrepreneurs now active across construction, energy and agriculture sectors. Speaking to Anadolu in Abidjan, Barim noted that Türkiye–Ivory Coast relations are in an "excellent" state, marked by constant mutual visits and the "great popularity" President Recep Tayyip Erdogan enjoys throughout Africa.

Barim stated that Ankara has expanded cooperation into political affairs, health and defense, with around 40 agreements governing exchanges in education, military relations and technical know-how. "Our trade volume doubled reaching around $1.5 billion," she said, adding that President Erdogan's $1 billion target was not only achieved by 2025 but exceeded. She noted that Turkish investment has risen significantly, supported by organizations such as the Turkish Diyanet Foundation and the Turkish Red Crescent maintaining a strong humanitarian presence.

Sectoral investments and development plans

Major Turkish firms including Sanko and Oyak have established operations in cement and ready-mix concrete, while a new cocoa pressing plant and chemical facility recently began operations, Barim said. She added that two additional investments are planned as Turkish companies capitalize on the country's political stability and secure business environment — factors that have made Ivory Coast an increasingly important destination for Turkish capital.

The ambassador noted that 12 trade events are scheduled across all sectors this year, with Abidjan set to host a consultation group meeting on July 8-9 to discuss infrastructure projects for the 2026-2030 development plan. She stated that the Ivorian government has invited Turkish business organizations to participate in the consultation, highlighting the West African nation's growing reputation as a reliable investment destination attracting intense interest from various international partners.