Côte d'Ivoire Celebrates 50 Years of Natural Rubber Industry Growth

The Association of Natural Rubber Professionals of Côte d'Ivoire (APROMAC) recently celebrated its 50th anniversary in Abidjan from November 5 to 7. As an agricultural interprofessional organization, APROMAC has played a significant role in the country's natural rubber industry. The event was attended by various stakeholders, including village producers, researchers, factory owners, industrialists, and administrative authorities.

Côte d'Ivoire has achieved a significant milestone in its agricultural sector, with natural rubber becoming the country's top agricultural export by volume, surpassing cocoa. According to recent data, the country's natural rubber production reached 2 million tonnes in 2025, a substantial increase from 164,138 tonnes in 2005. This represents a 12-fold growth in production over 20 years.

The growth of Côte d'Ivoire's natural rubber industry can be attributed to the efforts of 180,000 village producers. The country has been the largest African producer of natural rubber since 1990, accounting for over 85% of the continent's production. In 2025, Côte d'Ivoire ranked second globally, just behind Thailand.

The massive exports of natural rubber have generated significant revenue for the country, with nearly 1,900 billion FCFA earned. A substantial portion of this revenue, over 700 billion FCFA, has directly benefited small-scale producers. The industry's growth has had a positive impact on the country's economy and the livelihoods of many producers.

The anniversary celebration was held under the patronage of Côte d'Ivoire's Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, Tene Birahima Ouattara. The event's theme, "APROMAC, 50 years of success in service of a prosperous natural rubber industry in Côte d'Ivoire," reflects the organization's achievements and commitment to the industry's growth.

The natural rubber industry's remarkable growth has been a result of the collective efforts of various stakeholders, including producers, researchers, and industrialists. The industry's success has contributed significantly to Côte d'Ivoire's economy and has improved the livelihoods of many people involved in the sector.

As Côte d'Ivoire continues to build on its achievements in the natural rubber industry, the country is expected to maintain its position as a leading global producer. The industry's growth has the potential to create more opportunities for economic development and improve the lives of many people in Côte d'Ivoire.

Key points

• Côte d'Ivoire's natural rubber production reached 2 million tonnes in 2025.
• The country's natural rubber industry has generated nearly 1,900 billion FCFA in revenue.
• APROMAC celebrated its 50th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in the country's natural rubber industry.