Plizio Visual Lab

COTEB Textile Factory Parakou

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Industrial site

Weather…

The Complexe Textile du Bénin (COTEB) in Parakou is a historical landmark of Beninese industrialization. Established in 1971, the factory was originally designed as a vertically integrated enterprise covering the entire production chain from spinning and weaving to finishing. Over the decades, COTEB has been a cornerstone of the local economy, providing jobs for hundreds of residents in the Borgou Department. After facing periods of economic hardship and operational shutdowns, the facility has undergone gradual modernization in recent years to align with contemporary market demands. Today, the plant produces fabrics for uniforms, traditional attire, and home textiles. Its location in Parakou ensures direct access to high-quality cotton fibers from Benin's northern agricultural heartland. COTEB is more than just a production site; it serves as a symbol of the nation's efforts to revitalize its domestic textile industry. Government initiatives aim to expand its capacity and reduce reliance on imported fabrics. Additionally, the factory plays a significant social role through its vocational training programs for textile specialists.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	25	28	30	29	28	26	25	25	25	26	26	25
Rain mm	5	9	33	77	116	140	176	211	206	112	11	2

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The COTEB textile factory in Parakou is a historic plant that promotes the local processing of Beninese cotton into fabrics and clothing. It plays an important role in value creation within the country and job creation in the region.

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Visiting

The factory is visible from the main road, but access is usually restricted to employees. Visitors can see from outside the scale of the site and activities in the yard.

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Where to view it

A good spot for an exterior view is Rue de la Gare, from which the main facade and entrance area are well visible. The nearby railway bridge also provides an overview of the site.

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Local products

The factory processes local cotton into fabric rolls and ready-made clothing. In Parakou's shops, travelers can buy printed cotton fabrics, traditional boubou robes, or other local textile goods.

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Active season

Production runs year-round, with possible interruptions during maintenance periods. The greatest activity occurs in the dry season when the cotton harvested from the surrounding fields is processed.

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Nearby

Combine the visit with exploring the market of Parakou, where textiles and local products are sold. Also worth a trip are the nearby cotton fields and traditional villages of the Borgu region.

Geography

Coordinates

9.34000, 2.63000

Facts

COTEB was officially established on September 21, 1971.
The factory premises span several hectares in the city of Parakou.
The plant features integrated departments for spinning, weaving, and dyeing.
COTEB is a major supplier of official uniforms for Beninese government agencies.
The facility uses 'hand-picked' grade cotton sourced from local regional farmers.
During the 1980s, COTEB was the largest textile enterprise operating in Benin.