IMF Praises Ivorian Agricultural Recovery Amidst Ongoing Economic Program Review

IMF Concludes Review of Côte d'Ivoire's Economic Program

A delegation from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has concluded its latest review of Côte d'Ivoire's 2023-2026 economic program, offering a positive assessment of the nation's economic performance, particularly noting a recovery in its vital agricultural sector. The review, which included the Fourth Reviews of the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and Extended Credit Facility (ECF) Arrangements and the Third Review of the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) Arrangement, was completed by the IMF Executive Board on June 25, 2025.

The Ivorian Minister of State, Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development, Kobenan Kouassi Adjoumani, has been a key figure in the country's agricultural strategy. The IMF's assessment underscores the ongoing commitment to reforms aimed at macroeconomic stability and structural economic transformation.

The 2023-2026 Economic Program: A Framework for Growth

The 2023-2026 economic program in Côte d'Ivoire is supported by significant financial arrangements from the IMF. This includes approximately US$3.6 billion (SDR 2,601.6 million) under the EFF and ECF arrangements, approved in May 2023, designed to foster macroeconomic stability and guide the country towards upper middle-income status. Additionally, a US$1.3 billion (SDR 975.6 million) Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) arrangement, approved in March 2024, specifically targets climate resilience, with a strong focus on safeguarding the agricultural sector.

The IMF's mission head, Olaf Unteroberdoerster, has consistently praised Côte d'Ivoire's progress in its economic and climate change programs, including during a meeting with Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé in April 2024. The recent completion of the reviews on June 25, 2025, allowed for an immediate disbursement of about US$758 million, further supporting these initiatives.

Agricultural Sector: A Pillar of Ivorian Economy

Agriculture remains a cornerstone of Côte d'Ivoire's economy, employing roughly half of the workforce and contributing approximately 17% of the GDP and 10% of tax revenues. The country is globally recognized as the top cocoa producer and a leading producer of cashew, rubber, and cotton. The IMF's latest review noted a 'recovery in agricultural production,' indicating positive strides despite earlier challenges, such as weaker-than-expected agricultural production in 2024.

Efforts under the RSF arrangement are specifically aimed at reinforcing safeguards for the agricultural sector, recognizing its vulnerability to climate change. These measures are crucial for enhancing the sector's resilience and ensuring sustainable growth.

Outlook for Sustainable Growth and Resilience

The ongoing collaboration between the IMF and Ivorian authorities, including the Minister of Finance and Budget, Adama Coulibaly, reflects a shared commitment to sustainable development. The programs are designed to support Côte d'Ivoire's transformation towards upper middle-income status, strengthen its economic resilience to climate-induced shocks, and maintain balance of payments stability. The focus on integrating climate considerations into public financial management, strengthening governance of climate policies, and increasing green financing are integral to this vision.