The digital economy in Benin now sits at the heart of the country's drive to modernise the state and the economy. In just a few years, Benin has adopted a legal framework, a unique ID number for every citizen and many online public services. Meanwhile, a start-up scene is growing in Cotonou, especially around mobile payments. Here is what you need to know, whether you are a user, an investor or a member of the diaspora.
A legal framework and dedicated institutions
First, the legal basis is the Digital Code (Code du numérique), set out in Law No. 2017-20 of 20 April 2018. It covers electronic transactions, cybersecurity and personal data protection, among other things. For data protection, the APDP authority also monitors compliance.
On the operational side, the Information Systems and Digital Agency (ASIN) designs and runs the state's main platforms. In addition, the National Agency for the Identification of Persons (ANIP), set up by a 2017 law, gives everyone a personal identification number (NPI). This single number then serves as the key to most procedures.
E-government in everyday life
The national portal service-public.bj brings together procedure guides and a catalogue of e-services. As a result, users can check the required documents, fees and processing times before they apply. Many services can now also be paid online, by card or by mobile money.
| Platform | Main use |
|---|---|
| service-public.bj | Procedures portal and e-services catalogue |
| ANIP (website and app) | NPI, personal identification certificate, ID card |
| e-services.impots.bj | Online tax returns and payments |
| evisa.gouv.bj | Electronic visa for foreign visitors |
For travellers, the electronic visa is a good example, since you can only apply online. However, beware of intermediary websites that imitate the official platforms.
How the digital economy in Benin serves the diaspora
Beninese people abroad benefit directly from this shift. First, the iDiaspora portal, opened in April 2024, offers consular registration and several documents remotely. Our article on online consular services with iDiaspora explains the steps. Second, the ePASS platform, launched on 21 October 2025, lets you renew your passport online.
At the consular post, the approach is the same. Indeed, you can submit your files from your user account and track their progress without travelling.
Networks, operators and mobile money
Two submarine cables land in Cotonou: SAT-3, in service since 2002, then ACE. In addition, three mobile operators share the market: MTN, Moov Africa and Celtiis, which the state-owned infrastructure company SBIN launched in October 2022. These networks form the backbone of the digital economy in Benin.
Thanks to these networks, mobile money has become part of daily life. For instance, people use it for shopping, bills, taxes or money transfers. It also drives financial inclusion, because many users have no bank account.
Start-ups and innovation: Sèmè City and fintech
Fintechs born in Cotonou
Online payments are the most dynamic part of the digital economy in Benin. For example, FedaPay and Kkiapay offer merchants tools that combine bank cards and mobile money. Several Beninese fintechs have also formed an association to engage with the BCEAO, the regional regulator.
Sèmè City, a hub for knowledge and innovation
A flagship state project, Sèmè City brings together training, research and the incubation of innovative projects. Its future main campus is under construction in Ouidah, on 336 hectares. In July 2025, the government approved the resettlement plan for the affected residents. The stated goal is to welcome the first students on this site from September 2028.
Finally, President Romuald Wadagni's programme makes technological opportunities one of its three pillars. Our article on the first Wadagni government sets out this direction.
Investing in the digital economy in Benin from Belgium
For Belgian companies, needs therefore remain substantial: cybersecurity, cloud services, training, digital health or management software. Indeed, Belgian cooperation already supports the digitisation of health data, as our article on Belgium-Benin cooperation explains. See also our selection of growth sectors in Benin.
Frequently asked questions
What is the NPI?
The personal identification number is a unique ID issued by ANIP. It also acts as the key to many procedures, including passport renewal through ePASS.
Can I handle Beninese formalities from Belgium?
Yes, for some of them. In fact, consular registration, certain documents and passport renewal now go through official online platforms.
How can I spot an official website?
Public platforms generally use a « .bj » address, often « gouv.bj ». If in doubt, check the link on the consular post's website before you pay.
Does the digital economy in Benin offer jobs for young graduates?
Yes, especially in software development, fintech and cybersecurity. Sèmè City and the incubators in Cotonou are also good entry points.
The digital economy in Benin therefore makes life simpler for users, at home and abroad. For your own formalities, Honorary Consulate of Benin in Liège supports you online and at the counter. For any question, contact the consular post.
Sources
- General Secretariat of the Government: Law No. 2017-20 on the Digital Code (in French)
- National public services portal: service-public.bj (in French)
- ASIN: Information Systems and Digital Agency (in French)
- Sèmè City: International city of innovation and knowledge
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