Gambia Travel Guide - Business

• GDP: US$3 billion (2005 estimate).
• Main exports: Peanut products, fish, cotton, palm products and re-exports.
• Main imports: Food, fuel, machinery and transport equipment.
• Main trade partners: India, China, UK and Senegal.

The economy of The Gambia is basically agricultural, with groundnuts (nuts, oil and cattle cake) accounting for 50% of total exports. Forestry and fishing are also important. Rice is one of the main staples; some is homegrown but most is imported.

There are no viable mineral deposits although surveys have located some oil deposits. The small industrial sector is dominated by agro-industrial activities. Tourism, a significant generator of foreign exchange, is growing, as is the construction industry. 

Government economic strategy aims both to stimulate agricultural productivity and position The Gambia as a regional hub for trade, finance and telecommunications. Over the last decade, substantial infrastructural progress has been made.

Overall, the economy has performed fairly well, achieving annual growth since 2000, with 5.5% growth in 2005, but The Gambia has external debts of US$629 million (2003 estimate) and remains heavily dependent on international aid.

Businessmen wear jackets and ties for business meetings. A personal approach is important in Gambian business circles. It is advisable to take business cards; their use is appreciated though not universal.

Office hours: Mon-Thurs 0800-1600, Fri 0800-1230.

The Gambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry
55 Kairaba Avenue, PO Box 3382, Serrekunda, The Gambia
Tel: 437 8929.
Website: www.gambiachamber.gm

The Gambia Investment Promotion and Free Zones Agency (GIPFZA)
GIPFZA House, 48A Kairaba Avenue, PO Box 757, Serrekunda, The Gambia
Tel: 437 7377.
Website: www.gipfza.gm