Ivory Coast is the world’s biggest cocoa-producing nation, but uncertainty and violence since the disputed election has badly damaged the industry.
Mr Ouattara said the central bank would begin reopening its branches, and the army would secure delivery of medical supplies to hospitals and food to markets.
He blamed Mr Gbagbo for plunging the country into crisis, but said his forces now had the presidential palace under blockade.
Advisers to Mr Gbagbo, who insists he won the election, say the embattled incumbent is determined not to surrender.
“President Gbagbo will not cede,” said his Paris-based adviser Toussaint Alain.
“It’s a question of principle. President Gbagbo is not a monarch. He is not a king. He is not an emperor. He is a president elected by his people.”
French Defence Minister Gerard Longuet said Mr Gbagbo had fewer than 1,000 troops left loyal to him.