The Cape Verde economy is service-oriented with commerce, transport, tourism and public services accounting for about three-fourths of GDP. It depends significantly on development aid and foreign investment, as well as tourism, which is the mainstay of the economy and depends on conditions in the euro zone countries. The country’s economic reforms focus on developing the private sector and attracting foreign investment to diversify the economy and mitigate high unemployment.

Name Republic of Cabo Verde

Capital Praia

Frequency of elections Every five years

Name of parliament National Assembly of Cabo Verde

Parliament website www.parlamento.cv

Languages Portuguese, Crioulo

Area 4 033 km²

Population 538 535 (July 2014 est)

Imports Foodstuffs, industrial products, transport equipment, fuels

Exports Fuel, shoes, garments, fish, hides

Currency Cabo Verde escudo

Source: CIA World Factbook
Image: Gallo/GettyImages