Co3O4 bulk and surface state was characterized by operando XANES and NAP-XPS. Easy surface reduction in pure CO (∼100 °C) is via reaction with lattice oxygen. Fast reoxidation by O2 prevents overall reduction. Co3O4 bulk and surface appear fully oxidized under PROX selective conditions. CeO2 promotion increases reduction temperatures in CO and H2 and enhances PROX activity.