Subsistence agriculture forms the basis of the Guinea-Bissau economy. The country has substantial potential for development of mineral resources including phosphates, bauxite and mineral sands. While its climate and soil make it feasible to grow a wide range of cash crops, fruit and vegetables, cashews generate more than 80% export receipts and are the main source of income for many rural communities.

Name Republic of Guinea-Bissau

Capital Bissau

Frequency of elections Every five years

Name of parliament National Popular Assembly

Parliament website www.anpguinebissau.org

Languages Portuguese, Crioulo, indigenous languages

Area 36 125 km²

Population 1 693 398 (July 2014 est)

Imports Foodstuffs, machinery and transport equipment, petroleum products

Exports Fish, shrimp, cashew nuts, peanuts, palm kernels, sawn lumber

Currency Communauté Financière Africaine franc

Source: CIA World Factbook
Image: Gallo/GettyImages