A certified public accountant by training and a recognized expert in public and private investment, Mr. Eric AKOUTÉ is a leading figure in Benin’s economic and institutional transformation. He has played a significant role in advancing the structural reforms initiated by the Government of Benin in recent years.

He holds a degree in Accounting from the Académie de Paris and is a PhD candidate in Management at Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University. Mr. AKOUTÉ has built solid international experience in auditing, certification, and financial structuring within prestigious institutions, including Ernst & Young Paris, Mazars Paris, and the French Court of Auditors. There, he served as an expert and contributed to strategic initiatives related to public-private partnerships (PPPs), contractual governance, and the auditing of major public programs.

Within the Analysis and Investigation Office (BAI) of the Presidency of the Republic of Benin, Mr. AKOUTÉ played a key role in structuring several flagship projects under the Government Action Program (PAG). His technical expertise and mastery of complex financial and institutional arrangements established him as one of the trusted architects of the country’s major economic reforms.

Since the creation of the Investment and Export Promotion Agency (APIEx Benin), he has held the strategic position of Director of Studies and Investment Project Support. In this capacity, he has contributed significantly to the development and modernization of Benin’s legal and regulatory framework for investment, notably through:

· the Public-Private Partnerships Law,

· the Special Economic Zones Law,

· the Investment Code, which now serves as the foundation for investor approvals and incentive schemes.

His work has strengthened the competitiveness of Benin’s business environment, enhanced investment frameworks, and supported the implementation of transformative development projects.

Multilingual and experienced in teaching, Mr. AKOUTÉ is also recognized for his civic and community engagement. Athletic, curious, and open-minded, he represents a new generation of public leaders who combine technical excellence, strategic vision, and a strong commitment to public service.

On December 3, 2025, he was appointed by the Council of Ministers as Head Manager of the Investment and Export Promotion Agency (APIEx Benin).