Subsistence agriculture, together with forestry and mining, remains the backbone of the economy of the Central African Republic, with about 60% of the population living in outlying areas. The agricultural sector generates more than half of GDP. Timber and diamonds account for most export earnings, followed by cotton.

Name Central African Republic

Capital Bangui

Frequency of elections Every five years

Name of parliament National Assembly of the Central African Republic

Languages French, Sangho, ethnic languages

Area 622 984 km²

Population 5 277 959 (July 2014 est)

Imports Food, textiles, petroleum products, machinery, electrical equipment, motor vehicles, chemicals, pharmaceuticals

Exports Diamonds, timber, cotton, coffee

Currency Coopération Financière en Afrique Centrale franc

Source: CIA World Factbook
Image: Greatstock/Corbis