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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~14.4 MWorld Bank, 2025
GDP (current USD)$3.4 BWorld Bank, 2025
GDP per Capita$234World Bank, 2025
GDP Growth4.24%World Bank, 2025
Inflation (y/y)~34.13%World Bank, 2025
Unemployment0.92%World Bank, ILO modelled estimate, 2025
Internet Use~8.60%World Bank, 2024
Electrification~11.00%World Bank WDI
CPI Score (Rank)19.0/100 (#170)Transparency Intl
HDI (Rank)0.426 (#187)UNDP HDR

World Bank Indicators Compare with another country

GDP (current USD)$3.4 BWorld Bank, 2025
GDP growth (annual)4.24%World Bank, 2025
GDP per capita (USD)$234World Bank, 2025
Population, total14.4 MWorld Bank, 2025
FDI net inflows (USD)$35.1 MWorld Bank, 2025
Inflation (consumer prices)34.13%World Bank, 2025
Unemployment (% labour force)0.92%World Bank, 2025
Internet use (% of people)8.60%World Bank, 2024
Trade (% of GDP)No value publishedWorld Bank, none for 2016 to 2025

Country Facts

CapitalGitega
RegionEast Africa
CurrencyBurundian Franc (BIF)
FX RegimeManaged float
Legal SystemMixed: Belgian civil law, customary law
Time ZoneAfrica/Bujumbura

Focus Sectors

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

Regulations & Taxes

Corporate Income Tax30% standard
VAT / Sales Tax18% standard