School textbooks: unsold stock, repaid credits... booksellers in turmoil

In Côte d’Ivoire, the 2026-2027 school year has caused a crisis for booksellers, with unsold stocks of outdated textbooks following a reform of the single textbook policy. The 61 authorized bookstores rely heavily on the school market, but the late publication of new textbook lists has made certain books illegal to sell, leading to significant financial losses. Banks are demanding repayment of loans taken to finance these books, worsening the financial situation of merchants. Parents' dissatisfaction and logistical disorganization among publishers further complicate the crisis.