Polymarket in Côte d'Ivoire
Restricted: not geoblocked, but betting on events is a LONACI monopoly since December 2023.
| Polymarket status | Not geoblocked by Polymarket |
|---|---|
| National position | Restricted |
| Regulator | Autorité de Régulation des Jeux de Hasard (ARJH); LONACI (state monopoly operator); BCEAO (crypto) |
| Last reviewed | 23 October 2026 |
The legal situation in Côte d'Ivoire
Polymarket does not geoblock Côte d'Ivoire, and no Ivorian action naming it was found. Under the law of 27 May 2020 on games of chance, a decree adopted on 6 December 2023 gives the state-owned LONACI exclusive rights over sports betting, horse-race betting, lotteries and bets on events, including online. The government warned that betting with any other operator is illegal. Crypto falls under the BCEAO's regional regime, which treats it as unregulated.
Key facts
- Law of 27 May 2020 sets the legal regime for games of chance and created the ARJH.
- 6 Dec 2023: the Council of Ministers granted LONACI exclusive rights to betting on sports, races and events, online included.
- The government urged bettors not to use unauthorised operators, calling them illegal; no ISP block was reported.
- BCEAO: crypto is not legal tender in WAEMU and has no dedicated framework.
- No Polymarket-specific action found.
What are your options in Côte d'Ivoire?
If Polymarket or local law restricts this country, the honest answer is: don't try to get around it. VPNs and third-party wallets break Polymarket's terms, can get funds frozen and may be illegal locally. Look for prediction markets or exchanges licensed by Autorité de Régulation des Jeux de Hasard (ARJH); LONACI (state monopoly operator); BCEAO (crypto), and check back here: rules change.
Sources
General information, not legal advice. Check the regulator's own website before acting.
Frequently asked questions
Is Polymarket legal in Côte d'Ivoire?
Restricted: not geoblocked, but betting on events is a LONACI monopoly since December 2023.
Can I use a VPN for Polymarket in Côte d'Ivoire?
No. Using a VPN to reach Polymarket from a restricted location breaks its terms of service and can lead to frozen accounts. It may also break local law.