Economic Activities in Congo, Republic of the: Primary, Secondary, Tertiary, and Quaternary

Congo, Rep. is a country with a population of 6,332,961 (as of 2024, World Bank), ranking 108th globally. Located in Central Africa, it spans 342,000 sq. km, ranking 63rd, slightly smaller than Germany.

The Republic of Congo’s economy had a GDP of approximately $15.72 billion (2024, World Bank), ranking 128th globally. The GDP per capita for Congo in 2024 is $2,482, placing it at 138th worldwide.

Congo’s economic position reflects its ongoing efforts to strengthen and diversify its economy beyond hydrocarbons. Oil accounts for approximately 50% of GDP, 80% of exports, and 60% of government revenue, making the Republic of Congo the third-largest oil producer in Sub-Saharan Africa.

What are the economic activities of Congo, Republic of the?

• Primary activities: 9.4% of GDP (as of 2024, World Bank).
• Secondary activities: 40.1% of GDP (as of 2024, World Bank).
• Tertiary activities: approximately 50.5% of GDP (as of 2024, World Bank).

Primary Sector of Congo, Republic of the

The primary sector of the Republic of Congo is predominantly focused on agricultural activities, taking advantage of its tropical climate and abundant natural resources. With 31.27% of the country’s land dedicated to agriculture, the main agricultural products include cassava, sugarcane, oil palm fruit, bananas, plantains, root vegetables, game meat, vegetables, mangoes/guavas, and fruits.

Despite agriculture contributing approximately 9.4% to the GDP (2024), it plays a crucial role in the country’s economy by providing a variety of crops and animal products. The diverse range of agricultural products not only sustains the local population but also contributes significantly to the country’s food security and employment opportunities.

With a rich geological diversity, the primary sector thrives in the country. Abundant in petroleum, timber, potash, lead, zinc, uranium, copper, phosphates, gold, magnesium, natural gas, and hydropower, these resources play a crucial role in driving the economy. The largest domestic enterprise is Société Nationale des Pétroles du Congo (SNPC), the state-owned national oil company established in 1998, which manages Congo’s hydrocarbon interests and contributes over 60% of budgetary receipts to the State.

Secondary Sector of Congo, Republic of the

What is the secondary sector or what are secondary activities?

The secondary sector involves industries that transform raw materials from primary activities into finished products for consumption. In the Republic of the Congo, main industrial products include petroleum extraction, cement, lumber, brewing, sugar, palm oil, soap, flour, and cigarettes. Industry (including construction) accounted for 40.1% of GDP as of 2024 (World Bank).

Manufactures in the total exports of the Republic of Congo are not significant, accounting for a minimal percentage due to the country’s reliance on petroleum and other primary commodities for economic output.

Tertiary sector of Congo, Republic of the

What is the tertiary sector or what are tertiary activities?

The tertiary sector in the Republic of Congo involves providing intangible services to enhance productivity and meet needs. Key activities include healthcare, education, banking, communication, tourism, transportation, and security services. Services accounted for approximately 50.5% of GDP as of 2024.

In particular, the tourism industry in the Republic of the Congo plays a vital role in its economy. Destinations like the Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park and the vibrant capital Brazzaville attract visitors, contributing to economic growth and employment opportunities. However, the ratio of tourist arrivals to the country’s population remains relatively low, highlighting potential for further development in this sector.

Another example of tertiary economic activity is the mobile cellular sector, with approximately 5.6 million subscriptions, equating to about 95 per 100 inhabitants (as of 2023, World Bank). This connectivity fosters technological growth, enabling businesses and individuals to access information, communicate efficiently, and innovate, thereby enhancing overall economic development.

Military Activities and Economic Sectors of Congo, Republic of the

The military is a good example of many economic activities working together. In the primary sector, the military may use local resources for supplies. The secondary sector includes factories that make military equipment. The tertiary sector covers services like training and support. The quaternary sector involves research and development for new technologies. Lastly, the quinary sector includes high-level decisions about military strategy.

In the Republic of Congo, the military expenditure for 2023 is $284.7 million, which is approximately 1.98% of the country’s GDP (SIPRI). The active military force has 10,000 personnel, resulting in approximately 1.6 active military members per 1,000 people (based on 2024 population).

International Trade of Congo, Republic of the

Import Activities of Congo, Republic of the

The import activities of the Republic of Congo are significant, with imports of goods and services accounting for 39.31% of its GDP in 2023 (approximately $4.70 billion, World Bank WITS).

The Republic of Congo’s major import partners include China, France, UAE, Belgium, and India. Key import commodities are poultry, garments, vaccines, ships, and fish, reflecting a diverse range of goods entering the country.

Exports Activities of Congo, Republic of the

In 2023, the Republic of Congo’s total exports of goods and services reached approximately $9.47 billion, accounting for 56.90% of its GDP (World Bank WITS). Exports play a crucial role in driving the country’s economic growth and stability, with crude petroleum dominating around 85% of export value.

The Republic of Congo primarily exports crude petroleum, refined copper, wood, tin ores, and rare earth ores. Its main export partners are China (39%), India (20%), UAE (15%), Italy (5%), and Vietnam (4%).

Congo, Republic of the economy challenges in 2025

Congo, Republic of the faces ongoing economic challenges including declining oil production, high public debt (approximately 93% of GDP as of 2024), and slow diversification away from hydrocarbons. Poverty rates remain high, with approximately 47% of the population living below the poverty line. Efforts to implement CEMAC fiscal reforms continue, and the country has made gradual progress in debt management.

Sources

• World Bank Data: Republic of Congo
• IMF: Republic of Congo
• World Bank WITS: Congo Trade Snapshot
• CIA World Factbook: Republic of Congo
• SIPRI Military Expenditure Database
• UN Comtrade Plus: Trade Flow

Last updated: June 20, 2026