Côte d’Ivoire’s tourism sector generated more than CFA1.1 trillion in revenue in 2025. It contributed 8.7% to GDP. It supported over 650,000 jobs. The Tourism Minister, Siandou Fofana, disclosed the figures. He spoke during World Tourism Day celebrations in Songon on 8 October 2026. The country welcomed more than 6.7 million visitors during the year.
Côte d’Ivoire has invested in tourism since the end of its civil conflict. The sector was disrupted by the 2010-2011 crisis. It recovered slowly. In 2018, the government launched a tourism strategy. It targeted infrastructure, marketing and skills. The strategy has produced results. Visitor numbers have risen. Revenue has grown. The sector now rivals agriculture as a driver of jobs.
Fofana urged the sector to adopt digital technology and artificial intelligence. He said these tools would improve competitiveness, expand inclusion and create employment for young people. He described digital platforms and data analysis as essential. The event’s theme focused on digital technology and AI in tourism. It featured conferences, startup exhibitions and demonstrations of augmented reality and artificial intelligence.
Local authorities highlighted infrastructure, cleanliness, security and hospitality. They said these factors determine visitor experience. The government plans to expand the sector. It wants more visitors. It wants higher spending per visitor.
Winners: The Ivorian government, which gains revenue. Tourism workers, who gain jobs. Tech companies, which gain contracts. Local businesses, which gain customers. Losers: Countries with weaker tourism sectors, which lose market share. Traditional tourism operators, who resist digital change. The environment, if growth is unmanaged. No serious losers if the sector develops sustainably.
Bottom Line: Ivorian tourism generated CFA1.1 trillion. It supports 650,000 jobs. It contributes 8.7% to GDP. Digital tools can expand it further. The sector is a success. It can grow more.