Verified Facts

Official NameRepublic of Djibouti
CapitalDjibouti
Population1.1 million
Area23,200 km² (8,958 sq mi)
LanguagesArabic, French
CurrencyDjiboutian franc (Fr)
TimezoneUTC+03:00
RegionAfrica / Eastern Africa
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API

Quick Facts

GDP (nominal)($2.0 billion estimate)
GDP Per Capita($2,400 estimate)
Income Classification(Lower-Middle)
Main Industries(telecommunications, transportation, construction)
CurrencyDJF
Unemployment Rate(55% approximate)
Ease of Doing Business(ranked 112 out of 190, indicating a challenging business environment)

Economic Overview

Djibouti's economy is classified as a lower-middle-income economy, with a GDP per capita of approximately $2,400. The country has been experiencing steady economic growth over the past few years, driven primarily by its strategic location and investment in infrastructure. Djibouti's economy is heavily reliant on its ports and transportation sector, with the Port of Djibouti being a major hub for international trade. The country's development level is still relatively low, with a significant portion of the population living below the poverty line.

Despite the challenges, Djibouti has made significant progress in recent years, with the government implementing various reforms to improve the business environment and attract foreign investment. The country has also invested heavily in infrastructure development, including the construction of new ports, roads, and energy facilities. The economy is expected to continue growing, driven by its strategic location and investment in key sectors such as telecommunications and construction.

The government of Djibouti has also been working to diversify the economy, with a focus on developing the tourism and manufacturing sectors. The country's unique cultural heritage and natural beauty make it an attractive destination for tourists, while its strategic location and access to ports make it an ideal location for manufacturing and trade. However, the economy still faces significant challenges, including a high unemployment rate and a reliance on foreign aid.

Key Industries

IndustryContributionDetails
Telecommunications10%The telecommunications sector is one of the fastest-growing industries in Djibouti, with the government investing heavily in the development of new infrastructure and services.
Transportation20%The transportation sector is a major driver of the economy, with the Port of Djibouti being a key hub for international trade.
Construction15%The construction sector has been growing rapidly in recent years, driven by government investment in infrastructure development and the expansion of the Port of Djibouti.
Services30%The services sector is the largest contributor to the economy, with a significant portion of the workforce employed in the services industry.
Agriculture5%The agricultural sector is a small but significant contributor to the economy, with the country producing a range of crops including fruits, vegetables, and livestock.
Mining10%The mining sector is a growing industry in Djibouti, with the country having significant deposits of minerals such as salt, gypsum, and perlite.

Trade Profile

Top Exports:

  • Re-exports: Djibouti's strategic location makes it an ideal location for re-exports, with the country exporting a range of goods including electronics, textiles, and machinery.
  • Livestock: The country exports significant quantities of livestock, including cattle, sheep, and goats.
  • Salt: Djibouti has significant deposits of salt, which is exported to countries around the world.
  • Gypsum: The country's gypsum deposits are also exported, with the mineral being used in a range of applications including construction and manufacturing.
  • Perlite: Djibouti's perlite deposits are exported to countries around the world, with the mineral being used in a range of applications including construction and horticulture.

Top Imports:

  • Food: Djibouti imports significant quantities of food, including grains, fruits, and vegetables.
  • Fuel: The country imports large quantities of fuel, including gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel.
  • Machinery: Djibouti imports a range of machinery, including construction equipment, vehicles, and electronics.
  • Textiles: The country imports significant quantities of textiles, including clothing, fabrics, and other materials.
  • Pharmaceuticals: Djibouti also imports pharmaceuticals, including medicines and medical equipment.

Key Trading Partners:

  • Ethiopia: Djibouti's largest trading partner is Ethiopia, with the two countries having a long-standing relationship.
  • China: China is also a significant trading partner, with the country investing heavily in Djibouti's infrastructure development.
  • France: Djibouti's former colonial power, France, is also a key trading partner, with the country importing significant quantities of goods from France.

Infrastructure

  • Djibouti has a well-developed transportation network, with the Port of Djibouti being a key hub for international trade.
  • The country has invested heavily in the development of new energy facilities, including a range of renewable energy projects.
  • Internet and mobile penetration is relatively high, with a significant portion of the population having access to these services.
  • Djibouti has a number of ports and airports, including the Port of Djibouti and Djibouti-Ambouli International Airport.
  • The country's road network is relatively well-developed, with a range of roads connecting the capital city to other parts of the country.

Economic Outlook

Djibouti's economy is expected to continue growing, driven by its strategic location and investment in key sectors such as telecommunications and construction. The government has implemented a range of reforms to improve the business environment and attract foreign investment, which is expected to drive growth in the coming years. However, the economy still faces significant challenges, including a high unemployment rate and a reliance on foreign aid.

The government has identified a number of key priorities for economic development, including the development of the tourism and manufacturing sectors. The country's unique cultural heritage and natural beauty make it an attractive destination for tourists, while its strategic location and access to ports make it an ideal location for manufacturing and trade. The government is also investing in the development of new infrastructure, including ports, roads, and energy facilities, which will help to drive growth and attract foreign investment. Overall, Djibouti's economy has significant potential for growth and development, and the government is working to create a favorable business environment and attract foreign investment.

Related: Cost of Living · Monthly Budget Guide