(Ecofin Agency) - In a joint statement from the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Staple Food Production, the Ministry of Finance and Budget, and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the Ivorian government has initiated a six-month suspension on staple food exports effective since January 15.

The decision aims to ensure a steady supply of staple foods to the local market, prioritizing food security for Ivorian residents. Any violations of this directive may result in sanctions as per legal provisions. The measure comes amid expectations of increased food consumption during the 34th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN), from January 13 to February 11, particularly in urban areas. About twenty agricultural products and their derivatives, including cereals (maize, rice, millet, sorghum, and fonio), tubers (cassava and yam), as well as fruits and vegetables (plantains and peppers), are affected by the export ban.

The government had previously imposed restrictions on rice and sugar exports from September to December 2023 as part of measures to curb the cost of living and maintain consistent domestic market supplies.