Country Information - Gambia

ECONOMIC BACKGROUND The Gambia has no significant mineral or other natural resources and has a limited agricultural base. About 75% of the population depends on crops and livestock for its livelihood. Small-scale manufacturing activity features the processing of peanuts, fish, and hides. Re-export trade normally constitutes a major segment of economic activity, but a 1999 government-imposed pre-shipment inspection plan, and instability of the Gambian dalasi (currency) have drawn some of the re-export trade away from Banjul. Short-run economic progress remains highly dependent on sustained bilateral and multilateral aid, on responsible government economic management as forwarded by IMF technical help and advice, and on expected growth in the construction sector. Unemployment and underemployment rates are very high. On a more positive side, record crops assisted sturdy growth in 2001. (Source: World Factbook, 2003) Click here for Country Map [23kB]

BI-LATERAL TRADE OVERVIEW Virtually no bi-lateral trade occurred between Gambia and the US in 2002. In fact, Gambia’s exports to the US were negligible, and the US’ exports to Gambia amounted to approximately $ 9 million. Both imports and exports have remained fairly constant in recent years. Although The Gambia qualified for AGOA benefits only as recently as 01 January 2003, little scope seems to exist for any rapid expansion of its exports to the US (considering it qualified for certain benefits under the GSP). Detailed bilateral trade data for this country, disaggregated by industry sector, can be accessed by following the link below. Aggregate data featuring all AGOA-eligible countries is updated on this website as soon as new data is published, including ranked AGOA / non-AGOA trade, aggregate trade by industry sector as well as the latest apparel trade data. Click here for Detailed Trade Profile