Benin is developing domestic cotton processing and the production of finished garments

According to the USDA, Benin maintains its status as Africa's leading cotton producer. Between 2025 and 2026, the country harvested 1.15 million bales of cotton, accounting for 0.9% of the global total. Historically, cotton has served as the primary export crop and the main source of income for the state's agriculture.

Previously, the state exported almost all of its raw cotton to Bangladesh. The situation began to change in 2020 thanks to a public-private partnership with infrastructure developer Arise IIP. As a result, the Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone (GDIZ) was established, located 45 kilometers from the commercial capital of Cotonou. In this area of about 16 square kilometers, young workers process cotton, cashews, pineapples, and other produce.

Currently, GDIZ processes about 40,000 tons of Beninese cotton annually and produces 7 to 10 million garments. The enterprise manufactures products for brands such as U.S. Polo Assn. and Kiabi. According to the African Development Bank, the expansion of GDIZ's activities and the reorientation of exports toward finished products have helped reduce Benin's current account deficit from 6.2% of GDP in 2024 to 5.7% in 2025.

The cotton sector relies on a network of at least 183,746 producers united in 2,206 village cooperatives nationwide. Collectively, the cotton industry provides a livelihood for more than 2 million rural residents. For smallholder farmers, cultivating the crop remains profitable thanks to a guaranteed market and fixed prices set by the authorities at 300 West African CFA francs per kilogram. Cotton revenues allow farmers to support their families, pay for their children's education, repay debts, and purchase machinery.

Domestic processing is also being developed by independent entrepreneurs. Fatoumata Dosso, founder of DAF Collection, promotes traditional fabrics from the northern region and the "Made in Benin" concept, providing employment for local weavers. Such initiatives make it possible to keep added value within the country and expand employment opportunities for women.