São Tomé & Príncipe import fuels, most manufactured goods, consumer goods and a substantial amount of food. However, considerable potential exists to develop its tourist industry. The government has therefore taken steps to expand facilities in recent years. Petroleum resources could also be developed in the country’s territorial waters in the oil-rich Gulf of Guinea, which are being jointly developed in a 60/40 split with Nigeria.

Name Democratic Republic of São Tomé & Príncipe

Capital São Tomé

Frequency of elections Every five years

Name of parliament National Assembly of São Tomé & Príncipe

Parliament website www.parlimento.st

Languages Portuguese, Forro, Cabo Verdian, French, Angolar, English, Lunguie

Area 964 km²

Population 190 428 (July 2014 est)

Imports Machinery, electrical equipment, food products, petroleum products

Exports Cocoa, copra, coffee, palm oil

Currency Dobra

Source: CIA World Factbook
Image: Greatstock/Corbis