As the world’s largest exporter of gum arabic, Sudan produces 75% to 80% of the world’s total output. Agriculture continues to employ 80% of the work force, and the country has introduced a new currency, still called the Sudanese pound, following South Sudan’s secession.

Name Republic of the Sudan

Capital Khartoum

Frequency of elections Every five years

Name of parliament National Assembly of the Republic of Sudan

Parliament website www.parliament.gov.sd/en/

Languages Arabic, English, Nubian, Ta Bedawie, Fur

Area 1 861 484 km²

Population 35 482 233 (July 2014 est)

Imports Foodstuffs, manufactured goods, refinery and transport equipment, medicines and chemicals, textiles, wheat

Exports Gold, oil and petroleum products, cotton, sesame, livestock, groundnuts, gum arabic, sugar

Currency Sudanese pound

Source: CIA World Factbook
Image: Gallo/GettyImages