Agriculture in Ivory Coast: cocoa, cashew, rubber and what fills the markets.
Ivory Coast lives off its land. The country is the world’s largest cocoa producer and largest grower of raw cashew nuts, and Africa’s leading rubber producer. For travellers, though, agriculture shows up mostly in everyday life: in the plantations along the roads, in markets piled with yams, cassava and plantains, and on the plate, where almost everything is grown locally. This page explains what grows where and what you will see of it on the road.
Banana plantation
What grows in Ivory Coast
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Questions we get asked
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Plantations and markets are best seen on the road.
With a car and driver you reach the markets and cross the growing regions — we will advise you on the route.
Frequently asked questions
What is Ivory Coast’s main agricultural product?
Cocoa. Ivory Coast is the world’s largest cocoa producer; it is grown mainly in the south and centre, mostly on small family farms.
What else is grown in Ivory Coast?
Cashew, rubber, palm oil, coffee, cotton, bananas and pineapple for export, plus yams, cassava, plantain, rice and maize as staples.
Where does cashew grow in Ivory Coast?
Mainly in the north and centre. The country is the world’s largest grower of raw cashew nuts.
Can travellers see plantations?
Yes, many lie right along the roads. Ask permission before visiting; guided plantation visits are offered by local operators.