Key Economic Insights: The economy of the Gambia generates an estimated GDP of $2.6 billion ($919 per capita) supporting a population of 2,822,093. Productive output is anchored by 53.1% services, 15.8% industry and manufacturing, and 23.8% agriculture and natural resource extraction. Key merchandise exports include groundnuts (peanuts) and groundnut products, cashews, fish and shellfish, and re-exported goods, directed primarily toward Guinea-Bissau, Mali, and China.
Gambia, The, with a population of about 2,822,093 (2025), is ranked among the smaller nations of the world, just behind Jamaica. Located in West Africa, it covers an area of 11,300 square kilometers, ranking 151st globally, just below Qatar.
The Gambia, with a GDP of approximately $2.6 billion in 2025, holds a low rank globally among small economies. The Gambia’s GDP per capita was about $919 in 2025, which places it among the world’s lower-income economies. (World Bank, 2025)
Despite facing challenges, The Gambia’s economy shows potential for growth and development, with opportunities for further diversification and investment to improve the standard of living for its citizens.
Gambia Economic Structure & Sector Analysis
| Economic Dimension | Figure | Authoritative Source |
|---|---|---|
| GDP & Macro Output | Nominal GDP: $2.6 billion | Per Capita: $919 | World Bank WDI / IMF |
| Sector Breakdown | Services: 53.1% | Industry: 15.8% | Agriculture: 23.8% | World Bank National Accounts |
| Trade & Commodities | Top Exports: groundnuts (peanuts) and groundnut products, cashews, fish and shellfish, and re-exported goods | UN Comtrade / OEC |
| Demographics & Labor | Population: 2,822,093 | ILO / UN Population Division |
| Strategic Trade Corridors | Leading Trade Partners: Guinea-Bissau, Mali, and China | World Bank WITS / IMF DOTS |
- Primary activities: 23.8% of GDP.
- Secondary activities: 15.8% of GDP.
- Tertiary activities: 53.1% of GDP.
Primary Sector of Gambia
With 62.65% of the land dedicated to agriculture, the country produces a variety of crops such as groundnuts, rice, millet, and vegetables, along with animal products like milk.
Agriculture contributes 23.8% to the GDP and is a major source of employment and livelihoods. The diverse range of agricultural products supports food security and economic stability.
The country’s diverse geology provides abundant natural resources. Fish from its rivers and oceans support the fishing industry, while clay, silica sand, titanium, tin, and zircon contribute significantly to the economy through mining and export activities.
Secondary Sector of Gambia
In Gambia, the main industrial products include peanuts, fish, hides, beverages, agricultural machinery assembly, woodworking, metalworking, and clothing.
Manufactures make up a small percentage of Gambia’s total exports in 2023, indicating a reliance on other sectors for economic growth and sustainability.
Tertiary sector of Gambia
It involves intangible goods such as advice, attention, and expertise, catering to both consumer and business demands. Key tertiary activities in Gambia include healthcare and medical care, education and training, banking and finance, tourism and hospitality, transportation and logistics, and communication and information exchange. These services support the country’s economy and meet the varied needs of its population.
In particular, The Gambia’s economy heavily relies on tourism, contributing significantly to its GDP. The Gambia recorded roughly 207,000 international air tourist arrivals in 2023 (with higher figures cited when all border crossings are counted), and the industry continues to recover and grow. (Trading Economics / GTBoard, 2023) Popular destinations include Banjul and Kololi Beach, which attract visitors from around the world.
Another example of tertiary economic activity is the mobile cellular sector, with approximately 2.7 million subscriptions, supporting technological growth. This connectivity supports business operations across various industries.
International Trade of Gambia
Import Activities of Gambia
The import activities of Gambia are of high importance, with merchandise imports totaling approximately $2.45 billion in 2023 (CIF basis), a value far exceeding exports and reflecting a large structural trade deficit. (World Bank WITS, 2023)
Gambia heavily relies on imports, with key partners including Senegal, India, China, and other suppliers. Import commodities such as foodstuffs (notably rice and sugar), manufactured goods, machinery, and fuels contribute significantly to the country’s economy.
Exports Activities of Gambia
In Gambia, merchandise exports totaled approximately $83 million in 2023, a small share of GDP. With low value relative to imports, exports play a minor role in the country’s economy. (World Bank WITS, 2023)
Gambia primarily exports groundnuts (peanuts) and groundnut products, cashews, fish and shellfish, and re-exported goods. Its key export partners include Guinea-Bissau, Mali, and China.
Gambia economy challenges in 2024
In 2024, The Gambia faces economic challenges with high poverty and inflation rates. It heavily relies on foreign aid and remittances, with structural reforms tied to IMF support. The country’s agriculture-based economy struggles to sustain its population of 2.7 million.
Sources
- World Bank Data: The Gambia
- World Bank WITS: Gambia Trade Summary 2023
- IMF: The Gambia Country Page
- UN Comtrade Plus: Trade Flow
Last updated: October 2026
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