Burundi

Republic of Burundi

French, Kirundi Burundian Franc (BIF) Mixed: Belgian civil law, customary law
AU, EAC, COMESA, AfCFTA, WTO
Burundi is one of Africa's smallest and poorest economies, dependent on subsistence agriculture, coffee and tea exports. The mining sector (nickel at Musongati, gold, rare earths) offers growth potential but remains underdeveloped. The economy faces challenges including limited infrastructure, political tensions, and international sanctions history. EAC membership (joined 2007) provides access to regional markets. The government is pursuing economic reforms and reengagement with international partners.

Snapshot

Population~14.5 MWorld Bank WDI
GDP (current USD)$7.0 BIMF WEO
GDP per Capita$240IMF WEO
GDP Growth3.50%IMF WEO
Inflation (y/y)~27.00%Central Bank / IMF
Internet Use~8.00%World Bank WDI
Electrification~11.00%World Bank WDI
CPI Score (Rank)19.0/100 (#170)Transparency Intl
HDI (Rank)0.426 (#187)UNDP HDR

Focus Sectors

Agriculture (coffee
tea)
Mining (nickel
gold
rare earths)
Construction
Manufacturing
Telecoms

Regulations & Taxes

Corporate Income Tax30% standard
VAT / Sales Tax18% standard
Data Notes: Population, GDP, and GDP per capita are latest IMF WEO / World Bank estimates. Inflation is year-over-year. Trade data from UN Comtrade/OEC (2023). Tax rates from PwC/KPMG country guides. CPI from Transparency International. HDI from UNDP Human Development Report.
Narrative last updated: April 8, 2026.