Economic Activities in Lebanon: Primary, Secondary, Tertiary, and Quaternary

Lebanon, with a population of 5,805,962, is ranked 113th in the world, just behind Finland. Located in the Middle East, it covers a total area of 10,450 square kilometers, ranking 153rd globally, just below Jamaica.

As of 2023, Lebanon’s economic position remains severely strained following the financial collapse that began in 2019 and the 2024 conflict. According to the World Bank, its GDP was approximately $20.08 billion, and GDP per capita was about $3,478. National accounts data for Lebanon are contested during the crisis, so these figures are best-available estimates rather than precise measures.

Despite years of deep economic difficulties, Lebanon continues to strive for growth and stability in its financial landscape.

Lebanon Economic Structure & Sector Analysis

• Primary activities: 3.9% of GDP (CIA 2017 est.).
• Secondary activities: 13.1% of GDP (CIA 2017 est.).
• Tertiary activities: 83% of GDP (CIA 2017 est.).

Primary Sector of Lebanon

With 66.4% of the land dedicated to agriculture, the country produces a variety of crops and animal products including potatoes, milk, tomatoes, apples, oranges, olives, cucumbers/gherkins, chicken, lemons/limes, and wheat.

Despite contributing 3.9% to the GDP, agriculture remains crucial for food security and employment. The sector’s significance lies in the variety and quality of products, sustaining the country’s agricultural sector and ensuring a stable economy.

Lebanon’s diverse geology provides abundant natural resources, including limestone, iron ore, salt, and ample water resources in a water-deficit region. These resources drive the economy through industries like mining, agriculture, and water export, making use of the fertile arable land and mineral deposits.

Secondary Sector of Lebanon

In Lebanon, main industrial products include real estate, food processing, wine, jewelry, cement, textiles, minerals, chemicals, wood products, oil refining, and metal fabrication.

Manufactures play a crucial role in Lebanon’s total exports, accounting for 61.29% in 2023. This highlights their significant contribution to the country’s economy and trade balance.

Tertiary sector of Lebanon

The tertiary sector in Lebanon encompasses a range of services where individuals provide knowledge and time to enhance productivity and meet various needs. It includes intangible goods such as advice, expertise, and attention. Key tertiary activities in Lebanon are restaurants, healthcare and medical care, education and training, banking and finance, communication and information exchange, and tourism and hospitality. These sectors play a crucial role in the country’s economy and contribute significantly to its growth and development.

Highlighting these, Lebanon’s tourism sector contributes significantly to its economy, attracting 1,936,000 annual arrivals, equivalent to 35.27% of its population. Popular destinations like the ancient city of Byblos and the picturesque Jeita Grotto draw visitors, highlighting the country’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, driving economic growth and employment opportunities.

Another example of tertiary economic activity is the mobile cellular sector, with approximately 4.3 million subscriptions, supporting technological growth by enhancing communication, fostering innovation, and facilitating digital services.

Military Activities and Economic Sectors of Lebanon

In Lebanon, the primary sector supports the military by providing resources. The secondary sector is important too, as it manufactures equipment for the armed forces. The tertiary sector offers various services, while the quaternary sector focuses on research and development. Lastly, the quinary sector involves high-level decision-making and strategy for military operations.

As of 2023, Lebanon’s military expenditure was approximately $241.3 million, which is around 1.2% of its GDP. The country has an active military force of 60,000 personnel. This means there are about 13.1 active military members for every 1,000 people in the population.

International Trade of Lebanon

Import Activities of Lebanon

As of 2023, import activities in Lebanon are crucial, accounting for roughly 100% of GDP, totaling about $20.5 billion. This high dependence reflects the country’s reliance on foreign goods, and the gap between imports and exports underscores a persistent structural trade deficit.

Lebanon’s import activities are diversified, with major partners like China, Turkey, Greece, UAE, and Italy. Key imports include refined petroleum, cars, gold, broadcasting equipment, and diamonds.

Exports Activities of Lebanon

As of 2023, Lebanon’s total exports reached approximately $4.41 billion, accounting for around 22% of its GDP. Exports remain important for the country’s economic stability, though they are far outweighed by imports.

Lebanon’s export activities are diverse, with key partners including the UAE, Syria, Egypt, US, and Turkey. The country primarily exports diamonds, plastics, jewelry, gold, and scrap iron.

Lebanon economy challenges in 2024

Lebanon, a country with an upper middle-income Middle Eastern economy, faces challenges in 2024. Economic depression, COVID-19, and a port explosion have hurt economic activity, leading to hyperinflation and sharp increases in poverty. Banks have stopped lending, but a new financing facility is aiding in the recovery process.

Sources

• World Bank Data: Lebanon
• IMF: Lebanon
• CIA World Factbook: Lebanon
• UN Comtrade Plus: Trade Flow

Last updated: August 2026