A land of economic opportunities for investment and exports

Benin at the dawn of a new economic era

In recent years, Benin has embarked on a singular economic transformation, supported by rigorous government reforms. By creating a business-friendly incentive framework, the country has positioned itself as a magnet for investment and exports.

PIB

19,4 Mds USD (2023)

Growth

+6,4% (2023)

Notation

BB- Positive S&P (2024)

Reasons to invest in Benin

A pro-business government

Since President Patrice Talon came to power in 2016, Benin has launched major initiatives to boost its economy. The Government's second Action Program (2021-2026) calls for 342 projects worth 12,011 billion FCFA, targeting infrastructure, agriculture, tourism and health in particular.

The gateway to West Africa

Thanks to its strategic geographical position, Benin is a gateway to a market of over 300 million consumers in West Africa. The Port of Cotonou plays a central role, accounting for some 60% of GDP and handling almost 90% of the country's international trade.

An economy praised by rating agencies

In October 2024, the international financial rating agency S&P confirmed Benin's 'BB-' rating, with an outlook revised from "stable" to "positive". This revision reflects the strength of the country's economic and financial fundamentals, despite an unstable international and regional environment.

Rapid expansion of the Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone (GDIZ)

Located 45 km from Cotonou, the GDIZ is dedicated to the local processing of agricultural products, and is expected to attract $1.4 billion in investment and create over 300,000 jobs by 2030. The zone is the fruit of a public-private partnership between Benin and ARISE Integrated Industrial Platforms.

A stable democracy

For several decades, the country has been internationally recognized as a model of democracy in Africa. This reputation is based on a solid political framework, characterized by regular and transparent elections. This institutional stability creates a business-friendly environment.

Next : The gateway to West Africa

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La Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone
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Sugar Loaf pineapple in Benin

Benin has a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) for its "Pain de Sucre" pineapple from the Allada plateau. This product, distinguished by its green color, enjoys a competitive advantage thanks to its exceptional qualities, notably its taste and texture.

Cashew nuts in Benin

In just a few years, Benin has established itself as a key player in the production of cashew nuts, which are particularly prized in Asia and Europe. This success is largely attributable to the Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone, which plays a crucial role in the cashew transformation process, moving from raw material to high-quality finished products.

Benin is one of Africa's leading cotton producers

Benin is one of Africa's leading cotton producers, with significant production supporting the local economy. The country has developed a robust cotton processing industry, producing high quality yarns and fabrics for international markets. Benin is aiming to become a major textile power in Africa, with flagship projects such as the production of football jerseys for the 2026 World Cup in the United States strengthening its position in the global textile sector.

They chose
Benin

Pascal de Izaguirre
Corsair International CEO

« The government’s economic, cultural and tourism development program is very promising. Our mission as an air carrier is to support it by creating the conditions for optimal air connectivity to Benin as a destination. »

Henri Giscard d’Estaing
Club Med CEO

« We are very pleased to contribute to the unprecedented “Benin Revealed” development plan, which aims to give a lasting boost to the country’s economy through tourism, a major development axis, and to position Benin as one of West Africa’s leading tourist destinations. »

Gagan GUPTA
CEO of ARISE IIP

« All the indicators are in the green: political will, a trusting public-private partnership, investment in production and processing. One of our objectives is, in less than two years, to process the country’s entire cashew nut production on site, creating some 12,000 jobs. »