CFC – Casablanca Finance City Strengthens Moroccan-Beninese Economic Cooperation in Cotonou

Cotonou recently hosted the second edition of the Casablanca Finance City (CFC) Tour, following a successful inaugural event in Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire. This initiative aims to enhance intra-African economic synergies and contribute to creating an environment conducive to international investments on the continent.

As part of the CFC Africa Tour 2025, Casablanca Finance City organized a forum in collaboration with the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco in Benin and the Beninese Agency for the Promotion of Investments and Exports. The event brought together a Moroccan delegation, Moroccan business leaders established in Benin, as well as public decision-makers, investors, and financial institutions from Benin.

A Strategic Forum to Strengthen Moroccan-Beninese Partnerships

In a speech delivered on his behalf, Morocco’s Ambassador to Benin, Rachid Rguibi, emphasized the significance of this forum, which he described as the first of its kind between the two countries. According to him, this initiative presents a major opportunity to enhance coordination between the Casablanca financial hub and the financial centers of West Africa, particularly Cotonou.

He also praised Benin’s recent economic performance and the regulatory reforms undertaken, urging both sides to continue their efforts to build more effective and sustainable synergies.

Hicham Chaoudri, Director of Institutional Affairs and African Partnerships at CFC, reiterated that this initiative is fully aligned with the Royal High Guidelines aimed at strengthening Morocco’s economic integration within its African environment. He expressed hope that business operators from both countries would seize this opportunity to develop mutually beneficial cooperations.

A Strong Signal for the Beninese Economy

The Secretary-General of the Beninese Ministry of Industry and Commerce highlighted the significant transformations currently underway in the Beninese economy. He commended the forum, believing it would help solidify economic and financial ties between Morocco and Benin.

The CFC delegation also engaged with high-ranking Beninese officials, including the Minister of Industry and Commerce, and conducted site visits, including one to the Gdiz industrial zone, a strategic hub for the country’s industrialization.

Noteworthy Media Interest and New Steps Ahead

Participants unanimously expressed satisfaction with the outcomes of the meeting, labeling it a "structuring" event capable of providing fresh momentum to Moroccan-Beninese cooperation. The event also drew significant media attention in Benin.

Following the Cotonou leg, the Casablanca Finance City Tour will continue its journey through West Africa, with planned stops in Togo and Ghana.