KEY SECTORS

The Beninese agro-industry plays a central role in the national economy. This sector relies on key production chains such as cotton, cashew nuts, cassava, maize, pineapple, and palm oil. The Glo-Djigbé Special Economic Zone (GDIZ) serves as a major driver for this sector, promoting industrialization, employment, and competitiveness, particularly in the food processing industries. With a rapidly expanding dynamic and diverse investment opportunities, Benin’s agro-industry is positioning itself as a crucial pillar of the country’s sustainable economic growth.

1er

Cotton producer in Africa

28%

of the working population

26,9%

of GDP

Focus on the cotton sector

The cotton sector is a pillar of the national economy.

Cotton accounts for 40% of national exports and provides nearly 2 million direct and indirect jobs. In 2025, the country plans to strengthen local cotton processing through key projects, such as the establishment of new textile factories in the Glo-Djigbé Special Economic Zone (GDIZ).

This strategic shift aims to enhance Benin’s international competitiveness and position the country as a key player in the textile value chain in Africa.

They are taking part in the mission

The Cultural and Creative Industries (CCI) in Benin represent a booming sector, combining a unique heritage wealth with a dynamic of innovation. The screen industries, fashion, sustainable tourism, event planning, and museography are experiencing strong growth.

With the planned opening of four internationally significant museums in the coming months, the country is opening its doors to investors and international partners to build the future together of the Cultural and Creative Industries.

2

Billion euros invested by 2026

2

Million International tourists by 2030

4

New museums opened in 2025

Focus on sustainable tourism

The tourism sector, a driving force behind the Cultural and Creative Industries (CCI) in Benin, is experiencing strong growth thanks to strategic investments and a unique promotion of cultural heritage.

With iconic sites such as the Slave Route in Ouidah and the Royal Palace of Abomey, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the country attracted over 500,000 visitors in 2024.

They are participating in the mission

SODECO

Founded in 2008, the Société pour le Développement du Coton (SODECO) is a subsidiary of the SFP Group (Société de Financement et de Participation). It specializes in the functions of the Beninese...

Compagnie Béninoise des Textiles

The Beninese Textile Company is located in the municipality of Lokossa (Mono department), with its headquarters specifically in the Guinkomey neighborhood, on the right side of the paved road...

Le Groupe Empire

Specialized in Event Management, Communication, Nightclubs, Gaming Rooms, 12D Cinema, Catering, ICT, Hospitality, Trade, Representation, and more, the Empire Group is present in 6 countries: Benin,...

Benin is establishing itself as a key player in digital transformation in West Africa, combining strategic ambition and structural reforms. The country is committed to becoming a leading technology hub, integrating innovation, modern infrastructure, and sustainable partnerships.

A dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem is emerging, with nearly 88% of digital startups formalized, operating in key sectors such as agriculture, health, and finance. These strengths position Benin as a driving force in digital transformation, particularly in business process outsourcing assisted by Artificial Intelligence, e-government solutions, and the development of application solutions in the agro-industry and Cultural & Creative Industries (CCI) sectors.

88 %

of digital start-ups are formalised

2ème

Within UEMOA for the e-government development index

+35M€

invested in 2024

Focus on business process outsourcing

Benin is establishing itself in business process outsourcing (BPO) in West Africa. The sector is experiencing an annual growth rate estimated between 10 and 15%, driven by a young and skilled workforce.

In 2023, the country hosted the 1st edition of the African BPO Forum in Cotonou, showcasing its potential. The improvement of digital infrastructure and targeted investments further enhance this attractiveness.

They are taking part in the mission

VIPP Interstis

The VIPP Group offers customer relationship and BPO services with the best value for money through its locations in Sub-Saharan Africa and its 3,000 employees. - Back office, digitalization,...

CONCENTRIX

CONCENTRIX is a global technology and services leader that powers the world’s best brands — the ones you use every day. By conquering complexity and modernizing technology, we shape new...

ISOCEL

Our vision is to provide high-speed and unlimited volume access to all clients, whether they are individuals, small and medium-sized businesses, or large national or international institutions. In...