Introduction
Jean-Louis Billon, a declared candidate in the 2025 elections, is currently the rival of Tidjane Thiam, the new president of the PDCI-RDA, the political party in opposition. The growing tension between the two men has been the root cause of the internal crisis currently affecting the PDCI.

Early Involvement in Political and Economic Initiatives
In 2004, Jean-Louis Billon collaborated with several members of the Ivorian civil society (CSCI) to develop scenarios aimed at helping Côte d'Ivoire emerge from the crisis that began in December 1999. On the economic front, Billon launched a campaign throughout Europe and emerging countries to attract investors to Côte d'Ivoire. On May 26, 2008, he advocated for the return of French investors to Côte d'Ivoire during a meeting at the Medef headquarters in Paris.

Key Appointments and Roles
Jean-Louis Billon’s career has been marked by significant roles in both the private and public sectors. He was appointed Economic and Social Advisor in 2001. He also served as the Vice-President of the UEMOA Regional Chamber since 2002 and as Vice-President for West Africa of the Permanent Conference of African and French-Speaking Chambers of Commerce and Industry since 2004. On December 13, 2007, he became the president of the National Support Committee for the Ivorian national football team, the Elephants. However, after the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and the return of the supporters, Billon resigned from his position on June 27, 2010.

Curriculum Vitae
Jean-Louis Billon holds a Master’s degree in Business Law from the University of Montpellier and a Master’s in Management obtained in the United States. He began his professional career as a commercial officer at Grace Cocoa. Upon returning to Côte d'Ivoire, he joined Sifca in 1995 as General Secretary, and later served as president of both SAPH and Sifca in 1999 and 2000. In 2001, he became the independent mayor of Dabakala, and in 2002, he was elected president of the Ivorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. He also served as a member of the Economic and Social Council and has been involved with several professional organizations, including the Federation of Industries and Services of Côte d'Ivoire and the Confederation of Ivorian Enterprises (formerly CNPI). In 2009, he was appointed chairman of the board of directors of UBA Bank in Côte d'Ivoire.

Jean-Louis Billon was born in Dabakala, the hometown of his father, Pierre Billon. He completed his primary education at Le Nid in Cocody, Abidjan. His secondary education began at the Collège Moderne d’Abidjan II, followed by a stay at the Bingerville boarding school. After completing high school, he moved to France to continue his studies, earning a Master’s degree in Business Law from the University of Montpellier. He then traveled to the United States, where he pursued a Master’s in International Business Management, first at the University of Florida, then at Miami, where he met his future wife, Henriette Gomis, in 1994.

Distinctions and Publications
Jean-Louis Billon has received several honors, including:

• Officer of the French Legion of Honor
• Officer in the Ivorian Order of Merit
• Commander in the Ivorian Sports Merit Order
• Knight of the Congolese Order of Merit

He has been recognized for his work and contributions in various fields, particularly for his efforts in improving the business climate in Côte d'Ivoire. He expressed gratitude to the President and Prime Minister of Côte d'Ivoire for the trust they placed in him and for the support he received from the Ivorian people.

Ministerial Role
Jean-Louis Billon was appointed as the Minister of Commerce, Craft, and Promotion of SMEs in the third government under President Alassane Ouattara. He replaced Minister Dagobert Banzio and quickly became responsible for addressing the pressing issues of rising living costs in the country. Billon is a technocrat who is well-versed in the workings and culture of the ministry. His strong criticisms of the pressure and fiscal harassment faced by businesses have placed him in the spotlight.

Advocacy for Businesses and Taxation Reform
Since September 2002, Billon has been vocal in denouncing the harassment that businesses face from the tax administration. His advocacy for businesses, particularly in reducing excessive taxation and bureaucracy, has earned him respect in the private sector. At 48, with his legal and management background, Jean-Louis Billon uses his extensive network to benefit the economic development of Côte d'Ivoire.

Conclusion
Jean-Louis Billon stands as a prominent figure in both Ivorian politics and business, with a long track record of leadership, advocacy for economic growth, and national development. His work in various sectors, including his tenure at the Chamber of Commerce and his involvement in the Ivorian football community, has shaped his reputation as a committed and influential leader. With his declared candidacy in the 2025 elections, Billon is poised to play a significant role in the country’s political future.