Economy of Central African Republic

An overview of key economic indicators. Select a category for detailed trends, charts, and insights.

Explore Economic Domains

Growth & Output

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GDP (USD)
$2.6B(2023)
GDP PPP (USD)
$6.5B(2023)
GDP per Capita (USD)
$496(2023)
GDP Growth (inflation-adjusted)
0.9%(2023)
Inflation (CPI Annual %)
3%(2023)

Trade & Finance

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Exports (as share of GDP)
14.4%(2023)
Imports (as share of GDP)
29%(2023)
FDI Inflows (as share of GDP)
1.5%(2023)
Remittance Inflow (USD)
$0.0(2023)
Tax Revenue (as share of GDP)
8.2%(2021)

Labor & Income

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Unemployment Rate
5.9%(2024)
Employment in Services
23%(2023)
Poverty Rate
68.8%(2021)
GINI Index
43(2021)
GNI per Capita (USD)
$530(2023)

Energy & Environment

Coming Soon
Renewable Energy Consumption (%)
90.9%(2022)

Economic Snapshot Overview

A summary of key economic indicators for Central African Republic

  • The economic architecture of Central African Republic is substantial, anchored by a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of approximately $2.56B
    2023
    . This places it as the 165th largest economy out of 191 countries measured, underscoring its significance on the world stage. On a per capita basis, GDP stands at $495.98
    2023
    , while its GDP in Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) terms is estimated at $6.49B, reflecting the population's domestic purchasing power. The economy is seeing modest growth of 0.9%
    2023
    , accompanied by stable price levels, with inflation (CPI) at 3.0%
    2023
    .
  • On the global stage, the nation's trade and financial dynamics reveal a complex interplay of factors. The nation runs a trade deficit, with exports at 14.4% of GDP and imports at 29.0%
    2023
    . Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows are significant, constituting 1.52% of the economy
    2023
    . This performance positions the country 110th globally out of 186 nations, indicating its relative attractiveness to foreign capital. The government faces fiscal constraints, with tax revenue representing only 8.2% of GDP
    2021
    .
  • The socio-economic landscape is characterized by a Gross National Income (GNI) per capita of $530
    2023
    . Globally, this ranks the nation 187th out of 190 in terms of GNI per capita, providing a clear measure of its national wealth relative to others. The labor market is stable, with unemployment at 5.9%
    2024
    . The services sector is a primary driver of the labor market, accounting for 23.0% of total employment
    2023
    . Poverty remains a key issue, with 68.8% of the population living below the national poverty line
    2021
    . There is a moderate level of income inequality, with a Gini index of 43.0
    2021
    .
  • On the environment and energy front, The country is a leader in clean energy, with renewable sources making up 90.9% of total final energy consumption
    2022
    . Its commitment to clean energy places it 185th among 190 countries for its share of renewable energy consumption.

Key Economic Insights

Macroeconomic Health

Maintaining a balance between growth, inflation, and employment is the central challenge for economic policymakers.

Trade & Investment Profile

The economy is primarily driven by domestic demand, with limited exposure to global trade fluctuations but also fewer opportunities for export-led growth.

Social Equity & Distribution

Distributing the benefits of economic growth equitably is crucial for social cohesion and long-term stability.

Energy & Sustainability

A strong commitment to renewable energy positions the country as a leader in the green transition, potentially creating new economic advantages.

More About This Country

Note: The information on this page has been compiled from authoritative sources. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, please note that some figures may not be current or entirely precise.