Business Etiquette

French is the official language of Côte d’Ivoire. Business correspondence, catalogs, and advertising materials prepared in French are essential to be readily understood by potential buyers. Business cards or "cartes de visite" are widely used. Members of the expatriate community and those who have received their schooling abroad frequently use academic titles and degrees.

As a rule, business customs in Côte d’Ivoire are similar to but perhaps more formal than customs in the United States. Ivoirian managers in large commercial enterprises tend to follow a Western business dress code comparable to that of any large U.S. city. U.S. businesspeople ordinarily use their firm's name and have their title translated into French. Tropical-weight suits and clothing are appropriate throughout the year and an umbrella is essential during the April to July and October to November rainy seasons. Some businesses close during the month of August for vacation, and high-level officials generally take a break. Additionally, some businesses and shops close for lunch from 12:30 p.m. until 2:30 – 3:30 p.m. Banks are open until 4:00 PM on weekdays.