Since regaining political stability in 2011, Côte d’Ivoire has emerged as one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies. Building on this momentum, the government is now prioritizing inclusive and sustainable growth. In this context, Economy, Finance and Budget Minister Adama Coulibaly unveiled on May 28, 2026, the country’s first-ever national carbon emissions taxation strategy.

Rising emissions with improving carbon intensity

Between 2011 and 2024, Côte d’Ivoire’s greenhouse gas emissions more than doubled from 9 to 18.8 million tons. As Coulibaly explained, this increase stems from multiple factors including fossil fuel dependence, transportation expansion, industrial growth and agricultural activities.

Remarkably, during the same period, GDP surged from $35 billion to nearly $87 billion. This economic expansion has allowed the country to reduce its carbon intensity – emissions per unit of GDP – demonstrating progress toward energy transition. Per capita emissions remain modest at 0.65 tons annually, far below global averages like France’s 5 tons, China’s 8 tons or the United States’ 13 tons.

Why Abidjan is accelerating decarbonization efforts

The government recognizes that climate change poses immediate threats to Côte d’Ivoire’s economic pillars, particularly agriculture which employs nearly half the population. Rising temperatures, shifting rainfall patterns and increased environmental hazards are already disrupting critical sectors.

To address these challenges while maintaining robust economic growth, Côte d’Ivoire has set an ambitious target: cutting its carbon footprint significantly by 2035 while sustaining annual GDP growth above 7%. The country’s updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), published in 2025, outlines plans to reduce emissions by 33% through domestic efforts alone, and up to 74% with international support.

How the carbon tax will be implemented

The carbon tax will roll out in three distinct phases. From 2026 to 2027, authorities will establish the legal and technical framework. A moderate rate will take effect in 2028-2029, followed by gradual increases through 2035. The final phase will focus on evaluation and fine-tuning.

Targeting primarily fossil fuel consumption (except butane gas), the tax aims to incentivize reduced usage by increasing prices. Government projections suggest a €50 per ton CO₂ rate could cut national emissions by 1.2 million tons – equivalent to 6% of 2024 levels. However, officials acknowledge potential short-term economic impacts, including higher fuel prices and temporary growth constraints.

Driving transition, employment and social equity

The tax revenue will fund multiple initiatives to offset negative effects while accelerating decarbonization. Priority programs include nationwide electricity access expansion, subsidies for electric or gas stoves to reduce charcoal dependency, and support for electric vehicle adoption through tax incentives and infrastructure development.

To protect vulnerable households, a portion of revenues will be directly distributed to low-income families. Additional funds will support green job creation and workforce retraining for sectors affected by ecological transition. This comprehensive approach reflects the 2026-2030 National Development Plan’s core priorities: balancing economic growth, social justice and environmental protection.