(Ecofin Agency) - Côte d’Ivoire’s meat and edible offal market is one of the biggest in West Africa. With less than 50% of demand currently met, the need for these products is expected to grow even more in the coming years.

Côte d’Ivoire’s appetite for meat and related products will keep creating significant economic opportunities in the coming years. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the country’s meat market is projected to grow from $1.5 billion in 2022 to $2.2 billion by 2027. 

This growth is driven by changing eating habits as urbanization and rising incomes reshape diets in Côte d’Ivoire, the largest economy in the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA). Urban households eat more meat and other foods like dairy, vegetables, fruits, and processed items. The USDA predicts that per capita meat consumption will rise from 31 kg in 2022 to 35 kg by 2027. 

Poultry, Beef, and Pork Leading the Way 

Demand for poultry, beef, and pork is expected to rise sharply. Poultry, in particular, will dominate, accounting for about one-third of the total meat market by 2027, with a projected value of $700 million. 

Local poultry producers could benefit from this trend, partly due to a government tariff of CFA1,000 per kilogram of imported poultry, designed to offset export subsidies from origin countries. Additionally, the government’s second strategic plan aims to boost local poultry production to 200,000 tons and increase poultry meat consumption to 6.2 kg per capita by 2030. 

Beef will also play a key role in market growth. Ivorian consumers are increasingly interested in high-quality beef, fueling imports since domestic production meets only about one-third of demand. In 2023, Côte d’Ivoire imported $64.5 million worth of beef, representing 40% of its total meat and meat product imports, valued at $165 million. 

Meanwhile, pork is gaining popularity, especially in urban and peri-urban areas around Abidjan. Loved for its flavor and affordability, pork is often used in local dishes like kédjénou and braised pork. Official data estimates annual pork consumption between 60,000 and 100,000 tons, with up to 80% coming from imports.