Why is the deepwater port at Cotonou important for Benin and Niger?

The deepwater port at Cotonou is a vital economic asset for both Benin and the Republic of Niger.

For Benin, the port serves as the country’s primary maritime gateway and economic hub. It represents a significant trade asset with the potential to generate substantial revenue through customs duties. As the nation's largest urban center, the port supports Benin's broader economy, which relies on the export of agricultural products like cotton, palm oil, and cocoa.12

For landlocked Niger, the port is essential as a critical sea outlet for international trade. Because Niger lacks its own coastline and railroads, it relies on the port at Cotonou—along with the port in Lagos, Nigeria—to facilitate the movement of goods. The connection between the two nations is further supported by transport links, including roads that connect Niger to the railhead at Parakou, allowing goods to be moved toward the interior.1342