Côte d'Ivoire Corporate Tax Guide 2026

Overview — Corporate Tax in Côte d'Ivoire

Corporate tax in Côte d'Ivoire is governed by the General Tax Code (Code Général des Impôts) and administered by the Direction Générale des Impôts (DGI). A company is tax resident if it is incorporated under Ivorian law or if its place of effective management is in Côte d'Ivoire. Resident companies are taxed on worldwide income; non-resident companies with a permanent establishment are taxed on Côte d'Ivoire-source income only. Companies must register for tax with DGI and obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (NUI — Numéro d'Identification Unique). The tax year aligns with the calendar year, though companies may apply for a different accounting period with DGI approval.

Standard Corporate Tax Rate — 25%

The standard CIT rate for resident companies in Côte d'Ivoire is 25% of chargeable profits. Non-resident companies with a permanent establishment are also taxed at 25% on Côte d'Ivoire-source income. Taxable profit is computed as gross revenue less allowable deductions including operating expenses, depreciation, interest costs (subject to thin capitalisation rules — maximum debt-to-equity ratio of 1.5:1 for related-party debt), and losses carried forward. Losses may be carried forward for up to 5 years. A minimum tax (Impôt Minimum Forfaitaire — IMF) applies to companies with low or negative taxable profits, calculated at 0.5% of turnover (capped and floored at specific amounts).

Reduced Rates — Agriculture 15%, New Industrial 8%, SEZ 0%

Côte d'Ivoire offers reduced CIT rates to encourage investment in priority sectors:

• Agriculture — 15%: Companies engaged in agricultural production (crops, livestock, forestry, fishing) benefit from a reduced rate of 15%. This incentive is designed to promote primary production and food security.
• New Industrial Companies — 8% (first 5 years): Newly established industrial companies benefit from a reduced CIT rate of 8% for the first 5 fiscal years following the start of operations. Eligible sectors include manufacturing, agro-processing, and other industrial activities approved by the investment code.
• Special Economic Zones — 0%: Companies operating within designated SEZs benefit from a complete CIT exemption for a specified period (typically 5–15 years depending on the zone and investment). SEZs include the PK24 Industrial Zone near Abidjan and other regional zones.

These incentives are typically granted through the CEPICI (Centre de Promotion des Investissements) under the Investment Code. Pre-approval is required, and companies must meet specific investment thresholds and job creation targets.

CEPICI Investment Incentives

The Centre de Promotion des Investissements (CEPICI) is the Ivorian investment promotion agency responsible for facilitating investment and administering tax incentives under the Investment Code (Code des Investissements). Qualifying investments may receive:

• Partial or total exemption from CIT for a defined period
• Exemption from VAT on imported capital equipment
• Reduced customs duties on imported raw materials and machinery
• Exemption from the minimum tax (IMF) during the incentive period
• Accelerated depreciation for qualifying assets

The incentives are available for investments exceeding a minimum threshold (typically XOF 50 million for SMEs) in eligible sectors including manufacturing, agro-industry, renewable energy, tourism, and technology.

Branches of Foreign Companies

Foreign companies operating through a branch in Côte d'Ivoire are taxed at 25% on profits attributable to the branch. Branch profits remitted to the head office are subject to a branch profits remittance tax of 10% (repatriation tax). This effectively brings the combined rate to 32.5% for repatriated profits. Foreign companies may prefer to incorporate an Ivorian subsidiary to access the lower CIT rates and investment incentives available under the Investment Code.

Depreciation & Capital Allowances

Depreciation is deductible for tax purposes under the straight-line or declining balance method. Rates vary by asset category:

• Buildings — 5% straight-line
• Plant & machinery — 10–20% straight-line
• Motor vehicles — 20% straight-line
• Computers & office equipment — 33.33% straight-line
• Intangible assets — amortised over useful life (typically 5 years)

Accelerated depreciation is available for certain qualifying assets under the Investment Code.

FAQs

What is the minimum tax (IMF) for loss-making companies?

The Impôt Minimum Forfaitaire (IMF) is 0.5% of turnover, with a minimum of XOF 500,000 and a maximum of XOF 5,000,000 per year. Companies with losses must still pay this minimum tax.

Can foreign companies claim treaty relief on withholding taxes?

Yes, Côte d'Ivoire has an extensive network of double tax treaties. Treaty relief may reduce withholding tax rates on dividends, interest, and royalties paid to non-residents. The standard dividend WHT is 10% (reduced to 5–10% under most treaties).

How long can losses be carried forward?

Tax losses may be carried forward for up to 5 fiscal years. Loss carry-back is not permitted. The losses must relate to the same business activity and be properly documented.

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information about Ivorian corporate tax for the 2026 tax year. Tax laws and rates may change. Always consult with a qualified Ivorian tax advisor or the Direction Générale des Impôts for advice specific to your situation. InvestmentKit does not provide tax advice.