Côte d'Ivoire Custom import and export Policy

Trade Regulations

Côte d'Ivoire adheres to a free trade system, allowing the free import and export of most goods, except for those that pose a threat to national security or public health, such as weapons, ammunition, toxic products, and hazardous waste. Additionally, the export of raw logs is prohibited.

Inspection and Quarantine of Import and Export Goods

BIVAC, an international inspection company, is responsible for inspecting and quarantining all import and export goods in Côte d'Ivoire. BIVAC maintains a global network of offices. For goods imported into Côte d'Ivoire, commercial inspection must be conducted by BIVAC at the country of origin. The commercial inspection certificate, along with the bill of lading, must be submitted to the BIVAC office at the Ivorian port (Abidjan or San Pedro Port) for notarization before proceeding with customs clearance procedures.

For goods exported, the international inspection company's Côte d'Ivoire office must issue a commercial inspection report upon arrival of the goods at the port. This report, along with the bill of lading, must be submitted to the customs authorities at the port of arrival for notarization before the goods can be released. However, for the export of timber, COTECNA, a company authorized by the Ivorian government, must conduct an audit to prevent the illegal export of raw logs.