The State/Private Sector Consultation Committee (CCESP) in Côte d’Ivoire held a meeting on March 5th, 2025, to address concerns raised by the private sector and foster public-private dialogue.
Touré Faman, President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and spokesperson for the private sector, acknowledged the progress made in addressing business concerns while highlighting several priority issues. These include the reform of the Vocational Training Development Fund (FDFP), the dispute between the Association of Banking and Financial Institutions Professionals (APBEF-CI) and the Post Office, and the issue of outstanding VAT credit reimbursements.
Faman also emphasized difficulties related to increased removal credits for SME customs brokers and the multiple approvals required for importing and marketing phytosanitary products.
Adama Coulibaly, Minister of Finance and Budget, acknowledged the remaining concerns but highlighted that many issues raised by the private sector have been addressed. He cited discussions on metrology and the 2025 tax annex as examples of successful consultations with the private sector.
Regarding removal credits, Coulibaly clarified that the concerns stemmed from unauthorized actors and that approved customs commissioners had been consulted and accepted the measures. On the APBEF-CI and Post Office dispute, he reported that meetings had resulted in an agreement and that discussions would continue to finalize a clear solution within a month.
Coulibaly addressed the issue of multiple approvals for fertilizer imports, explaining that the Ministry of Agriculture and stakeholders had reached an agreement. He stressed the need for traceability in the fertilizer supply chain, requiring approvals at each stage (importers, distributors, retailers) to ensure effective control of this sensitive product. While the need for these approvals was agreed upon, discussions on the associated costs and rates will continue.
This meeting underscores the ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration between the Ivorian government and the private sector to address key economic challenges and foster a conducive business environment.
AP/Sf/fss/abj/APA