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

Sudan, with a population of about 51.7 million (World Bank, 2025), ranks among the more populous African nations. Located in northeast Africa, it spans roughly 1,879,358 sq. km, making it one of the largest countries in Africa by area.

As of 2025, Sudan’s GDP is approximately $60.2 billion (World Bank, current US$), after a sharp contraction driven by the civil war that began in April 2023. The GDP per capita is about $1165 (World Bank, 2025), among the lowest in the world.

These figures are estimates compiled under difficult conditions; the ongoing conflict has severely disrupted economic activity and data collection. Sudan’s economy remains heavily reliant on agriculture and natural resources.

Sudan Economic Structure & Sector Analysis

• Primary activities (agriculture, forestry, fishing): 29.4% of GDP (2025).
• Secondary activities (industry, incl. construction): 33.6% of GDP (2025).
• Tertiary activities (services): 37.0% of GDP (2025, World Bank).

Primary Sector of Sudan

With 60.31% of the land dedicated to agriculture, the country produces a variety of crops and animal products. The main agricultural products include sorghum, sugarcane, milk, groundnuts, millet, onions, sesame seeds, goat milk, bananas, and mangoes/guavas.

Agriculture contributes roughly 29.4% of GDP (World Bank, 2025) and employs a large share of the workforce.

The country boasts a diverse geology, resulting in abundant natural resources. Petroleum is a key asset, alongside iron ore, copper, and other minerals. Hydropower further boosts the economy, making the primary sector a major source of the nation’s income.

Sudan’s oil production of around 66,912 barrels per day places it at the 31st position in the world ranking. With 5 billion barrels in reserves, it holds 0.3% of global oil reserves, further solidifying its economic activity in the oil sector.

Secondary Sector of Sudan

In Sudan, key industrial products include textiles, cement, edible oils, sugar, soap distilling, shoes, petroleum refining, pharmaceuticals, armaments, and automobile/light truck assembly.

Manufactures in Sudan’s total exports are not significant, accounting for only a small percentage in 2023. The country relies more on other sectors for its export revenue.

Tertiary sector of Sudan

The tertiary sector in Sudan encompasses various services that contribute to the economy through the provision of knowledge and time. Key activities include healthcare, education, banking, communication, media production, and transportation. These services raise productivity and meet the needs of the population.

With its rich cultural heritage and diverse natural attractions, such as the iconic Pyramids of Meroe and the stunning Nubian Desert, Sudan draws visitors from around the world. However, the ratio of tourist arrivals to the population remains relatively low, indicating untapped potential for growth in this sector.

Another example of tertiary economic activity is the mobile cellular sector, with approximately 34 million subscriptions. This connectivity enhances communication, supports businesses, and drives innovation.

Biggest company in Sudan

Which is the biggest company in Sudan? One of the largest companies is DAL Group, Sudan’s largest and most diversified privately owned conglomerate. It operates across food and agriculture (including the Sayga flour brand), engineering, automotive, and other sectors, with reported annual revenue on the order of several hundred million US dollars. DAL Group traces its origins to 1951 and is headquartered in Khartoum.

International Trade of Sudan

Import Activities of Sudan

Sudan’s imports are an important part of its economy. Key categories include refined petroleum, wheat, machinery, and vehicles.

Sudan’s key import activities include raw sugar, wheat, refined petroleum, garments, and jewelry. Its main import partners are China (22%), UAE (20%), India (18%), Egypt (9%), and Turkey (5%).

Exports Activities of Sudan

Sudan’s exports are dominated by gold, which has become the country’s main source of foreign exchange, alongside oil seeds, livestock, and agricultural products. Export earnings have been disrupted by the ongoing conflict.

Sudan’s export activities are primarily focused on gold, crude petroleum, oil seeds, ground nuts, and cotton. The country’s top export partners are the UAE, China, Italy, Egypt, and Turkey, with the UAE accounting for 43% of exports.

Sudan economy challenges in 2024

Sudan, a low-income economy, faces severe challenges following the civil war that erupted in April 2023. The conflict has caused large-scale displacement, disrupted agriculture and industry, fueled high inflation, and contributed to a major humanitarian crisis. Reconstruction and a return to stability are critical for any economic recovery (World Bank/IMF assessments, 2024).

Sources

• World Bank: Sudan
• IMF: Sudan
• UN Comtrade Plus: Trade Flow

Last updated: October 2026