Equatorial Guinea
AfricaEK October 01, 2025
Background
Equatorial Guinea consists of a continental territory and five inhabited islands; it is one of the smallest countries by area and population in Africa. The mainland region was most likely predominantly inhabited by Pygmy ethnic groups prior to the migration of various Bantu-speaking ethnic groups around the second millennium BC. The island of Bioko, the largest of Equatorial Guinea’s five inhabited islands and the location of the country’s capital of Malabo, has been occupied since at least 1000 B.C. In the early 1470s, Portuguese explorers landed on Bioko Island, and Portugal soon after established control of the island and other areas of modern Equatorial Guinea. In 1778, Portugal ceded its colonial hold over present-day Equatorial Guinea to Spain in the Treaty of El Pardo. The borders of modern-day Equatorial Guinea would evolve between 1778 and 1968 as the area remained under European colonial rule.
In 1968, Equatorial Guinea was granted independence from Spain and elected Francisco MACIAS NGUEMA as its first president. MACIAS consolidated power soon after his election and ruled brutally for over a decade. Under his regime, Equatorial Guinea experienced mass suppression, purges, and killings. Some estimates indicate that a third of the population either went into exile or was killed under MACIAS’ rule. In 1979, present-day President OBIANG Nguema Mbasogo, then a senior military officer, deposed MACIAS in a violent coup. OBIANG has ruled since and has been elected in non-competitive contests several times, most recently in 2022. The president exerts near-total control over the political system.
Equatorial Guinea experienced rapid economic growth in the early years of the 21st century due to the discovery of large offshore oil reserves in 1996. Production peaked in 2004 and has declined since. The country's economic windfall from oil production resulted in massive increases in government revenue, a significant portion of which was earmarked for infrastructure development. Systemic corruption, however, has hindered socio-economic development, and the population has seen only limited improvements to living standards. Equatorial Guinea continues to seek to diversify its economy, increase foreign investment, and assume a greater role in regional and international affairs. 
In 1968, Equatorial Guinea was granted independence from Spain and elected Francisco MACIAS NGUEMA as its first president. MACIAS consolidated power soon after his election and ruled brutally for over a decade. Under his regime, Equatorial Guinea experienced mass suppression, purges, and killings. Some estimates indicate that a third of the population either went into exile or was killed under MACIAS’ rule. In 1979, present-day President OBIANG Nguema Mbasogo, then a senior military officer, deposed MACIAS in a violent coup. OBIANG has ruled since and has been elected in non-competitive contests several times, most recently in 2022. The president exerts near-total control over the political system.
Equatorial Guinea experienced rapid economic growth in the early years of the 21st century due to the discovery of large offshore oil reserves in 1996. Production peaked in 2004 and has declined since. The country's economic windfall from oil production resulted in massive increases in government revenue, a significant portion of which was earmarked for infrastructure development. Systemic corruption, however, has hindered socio-economic development, and the population has seen only limited improvements to living standards. Equatorial Guinea continues to seek to diversify its economy, increase foreign investment, and assume a greater role in regional and international affairs. 
Geographic coordinates
2 00 N, 10 00 E
Natural hazards
violent windstorms; flash floods
Volcanism: Santa Isabel (3,007 m), which last erupted in 1923, is the country's only historically active volcano; Santa Isabel and two dormant volcanoes form Bioko Island in the Gulf of Guinea
Volcanism: Santa Isabel (3,007 m), which last erupted in 1923, is the country's only historically active volcano; Santa Isabel and two dormant volcanoes form Bioko Island in the Gulf of Guinea
Area - comparative
slightly smaller than Maryland
Environmental issues
deforestation (agricultural expansion, fires, and grazing); desertification; water pollution; tap water non-potable; wildlife preservation
International environmental agreements
Party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping-London Convention, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands
Signed, but not ratified: Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban
Signed, but not ratified: Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban
Climate
tropical; always hot, humid
Coastline
296 km
Land boundaries
Total: 528 km
Border countries (2): Cameroon 183 km; Gabon 345 km
Border countries (2): Cameroon 183 km; Gabon 345 km
Land use
Agricultural land: 3.7% (2022 est.)
Arable land: 1.9% (2022 est.)
Permanent crops: 1.7% (2022 est.)
Permanent pasture: 0.2% (2022 est.)
Forest: 86.7% (2022 est.)
Other: 9.6% (2022 est.)
Arable land: 1.9% (2022 est.)
Permanent crops: 1.7% (2022 est.)
Permanent pasture: 0.2% (2022 est.)
Forest: 86.7% (2022 est.)
Other: 9.6% (2022 est.)
Maritime claims
Territorial sea: 12 nm
Exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
Exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
Natural resources
petroleum, natural gas, timber, gold, bauxite, diamonds, tantalum, sand and gravel, clay
Geography - note
insular and continental regions widely separated; despite its name, no part of the equator passes through Equatorial Guinea -- the mainland part of the country is located just north of the equator
Terrain
coastal plains rise to interior hills; islands are volcanic
Location
Central Africa, bordering the Bight of Biafra, between Cameroon and Gabon
Map references
Africa
Irrigated land
NA
Total renewable water resources
26 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
Population distribution
the two large cities are Bata on the mainland and the capital Malabo on the island of Bioko; small communities are scattered throughout the mainland and the five inhabited islands, as shown in this population distribution map
Elevation
Highest point: Pico Basile 3,008 m
Lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Mean elevation: 577 m
Lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Mean elevation: 577 m
Area
Total : 28,051 sq km
Land: 28,051 sq km
Water: 0 sq km
Land: 28,051 sq km
Water: 0 sq km
Age structure
0-14 years: 35.6% (male 330,636/female 309,528)
15-64 years: 59.4% (male 585,139/female 481,121)
65 years and over: 5% (2024 est.) (male 46,610/female 42,800)
15-64 years: 59.4% (male 585,139/female 481,121)
65 years and over: 5% (2024 est.) (male 46,610/female 42,800)
Sex ratio
At birth: 1.03 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.07 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 1.22 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 1.09 male(s)/female
Total population: 1.16 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
0-14 years: 1.07 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 1.22 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 1.09 male(s)/female
Total population: 1.16 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
Nationality
Noun: Equatorial Guinean(s) or Equatoguinean(s)
Adjective: Equatorial Guinean or Equatoguinean
Adjective: Equatorial Guinean or Equatoguinean
Urbanization
Urban population: 74.4% of total population (2023)
Rate of urbanization: 3.62% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Rate of urbanization: 3.62% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population
297,000 MALABO (capital) (2018)
Dependency ratios
Total dependency ratio: 68.4 (2024 est.)
Youth dependency ratio: 60 (2024 est.)
Elderly dependency ratio: 8.4 (2024 est.)
Potential support ratio: 11.9 (2024 est.)
Youth dependency ratio: 60 (2024 est.)
Elderly dependency ratio: 8.4 (2024 est.)
Potential support ratio: 11.9 (2024 est.)
Ethnic groups
Fang 78.1%, Bubi 9.4%, Ndowe 2.8%, Nanguedambo 2.7%, Bisio 0.9%, foreigner 5.3%, other 0.7%, unspecified 0.2% (2011 est.)
Religions
Roman Catholic 88%, Protestant 5%, Muslim 2%, other 5% (animist, Baha'i, Jewish) (2015 est.)
Languages
Spanish (official) 67.6%, other (includes Fang, Bubi, Portuguese (official), French (official), Fa d'Ambo spoken in Annobon) 32.4% (1994 est.)
Major-language sample(s):
La Libreta Informativa del Mundo, la fuente indispensable de información básica. (Spanish)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Major-language sample(s):
La Libreta Informativa del Mundo, la fuente indispensable de información básica. (Spanish)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Physician density
0.15 physicians/1,000 population (2022)
Health expenditure
3.4% of GDP (2021)
4.4% of national budget (2022 est.)
4.4% of national budget (2022 est.)
Gross reproduction rate
2.03 (2024 est.)
Currently married women (ages 15-49)
60.2% (2023 est.)
Youth unemployment rate (ages 15-24)
Total: 14.7% (2024 est.)
Male: 13.9% (2024 est.)
Female: 15.7% (2024 est.)
note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Male: 13.9% (2024 est.)
Female: 15.7% (2024 est.)
note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Net migration rate
12.1 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Median age
Total: 22.1 years (2024 est.)
Male: 22.7 years
Female: 21.5 years
Male: 22.7 years
Female: 21.5 years
Maternal mortality ratio
174 deaths/100,000 live births (2023 est.)
Total fertility rate
4.12 children born/woman (2024 est.)
Population
Total: 1,795,834 (2024 est.)
Male: 962,385
Female: 833,449
Male: 962,385
Female: 833,449
Infant mortality rate
Total: 77.4 deaths/1,000 live births (2024 est.)
Male: 83.3 deaths/1,000 live births
Female: 71.3 deaths/1,000 live births
Male: 83.3 deaths/1,000 live births
Female: 71.3 deaths/1,000 live births
Obesity - adult prevalence rate
8% (2016)
Death rate
8.9 deaths/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Birth rate
29 births/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Alcohol consumption per capita
Total: 6.11 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Beer: 3.83 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Wine: 1.24 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Spirits: 0.99 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Other alcohols: 0.05 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Beer: 3.83 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Wine: 1.24 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Spirits: 0.99 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Other alcohols: 0.05 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Life expectancy at birth
Total population: 63.9 years (2024 est.)
Male: 61.6 years
Female: 66.2 years
Male: 61.6 years
Female: 66.2 years
Population growth rate
3.23% (2024 est.)
Total water withdrawal
Municipal: 15.8 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
Industrial: 3 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
Agricultural: 1 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
Industrial: 3 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
Agricultural: 1 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
Waste and recycling
Municipal solid waste generated annually: 198,400 tons (2024 est.)
Percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 23.9% (2022 est.)
Percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 23.9% (2022 est.)
Particulate matter emissions
26.5 micrograms per cubic meter (2019 est.)
Carbon dioxide emissions
5.471 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From coal and metallurgical coke: 1 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From petroleum and other liquids: 896,000 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From consumed natural gas: 4.575 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From coal and metallurgical coke: 1 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From petroleum and other liquids: 896,000 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From consumed natural gas: 4.575 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
Energy consumption per capita
54.509 million Btu/person (2023 est.)
Diplomatic representation from the US
Chief of mission: Ambassador David R. GILMOUR (since 24 May 2022)
Embassy: Malabo II Highway (between the Headquarters of Sonagas and the offices of the United Nations), Malabo
Mailing address: 2320 Malabo Place, Washington, DC 20521-2520
Telephone: [240] 333 09-57-41
Email address and website:
Malaboconsular@state.gov
https://gq.usembassy.gov/
Embassy: Malabo II Highway (between the Headquarters of Sonagas and the offices of the United Nations), Malabo
Mailing address: 2320 Malabo Place, Washington, DC 20521-2520
Telephone: [240] 333 09-57-41
Email address and website:
Malaboconsular@state.gov
https://gq.usembassy.gov/
Administrative divisions
8 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia); Annobon, Bioko Norte, Bioko Sur, Centro Sur, Djibloho, Kie-Ntem, Litoral, Wele-Nzas
Capital
Name: Malabo; note - Malabo is on the island of Bioko; some months of the year, the government operates out of Bata on the mainland region.
Geographic coordinates: 3 45 N, 8 47 E
Time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Etymology: English settlers who founded the city in 1827 named it Port Clarence after the Duke of CLARENCE; the Spanish renamed it Santa Isabel in 1843, for Queen ISABELLA II of Spain; it was renamed again in 1973 after King MALABO (1837–1937), the last king of the Bubi (local ethnic group)
Geographic coordinates: 3 45 N, 8 47 E
Time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Etymology: English settlers who founded the city in 1827 named it Port Clarence after the Duke of CLARENCE; the Spanish renamed it Santa Isabel in 1843, for Queen ISABELLA II of Spain; it was renamed again in 1973 after King MALABO (1837–1937), the last king of the Bubi (local ethnic group)
Constitution
History: Previous 1968, 1973, 1982; approved by referendum 17 November 1991
Amendment process: Proposed by the president of the republic or supported by three fourths of the membership in either house of the National Assembly; passage requires three-fourths majority vote by both houses of the Assembly and approval in a referendum if requested by the president
Amendment process: Proposed by the president of the republic or supported by three fourths of the membership in either house of the National Assembly; passage requires three-fourths majority vote by both houses of the Assembly and approval in a referendum if requested by the president
Executive branch
Chief of state: President OBIANG Nguema Mbasogo (since 3 August 1979)
Head of government: Prime Minister Manuel Osa Nsue Nsua (since 17 August 2024)
Cabinet: Council of Ministers appointed by the president and overseen by the prime minister
Election/appointment process: President directly elected by simple-majority popular vote for a 7-year term (eligible for a second term); prime minister and deputy prime ministers appointed by the president
Most recent election date: 20 November 2022
Election results:
2022: OBIANG Nguema Mbasogo reelected president; percent of vote - OBIANG Nguema Mbasogo (PDGE) 95%, other 6.1%
2016: OBIANG Nguema Mbasogo reelected president; percent of vote - OBIANG Nguema Mbasogo (PDGE) 93.5%, other 6.5%
Expected date of next election: 2029
Head of government: Prime Minister Manuel Osa Nsue Nsua (since 17 August 2024)
Cabinet: Council of Ministers appointed by the president and overseen by the prime minister
Election/appointment process: President directly elected by simple-majority popular vote for a 7-year term (eligible for a second term); prime minister and deputy prime ministers appointed by the president
Most recent election date: 20 November 2022
Election results:
2022: OBIANG Nguema Mbasogo reelected president; percent of vote - OBIANG Nguema Mbasogo (PDGE) 95%, other 6.1%
2016: OBIANG Nguema Mbasogo reelected president; percent of vote - OBIANG Nguema Mbasogo (PDGE) 93.5%, other 6.5%
Expected date of next election: 2029
Flag
Description: Three equal horizontal bands of green (top), white, and red, with a blue isosceles triangle based on the left side and the coat of arms centered in the white band; the coat of arms has six six-pointed yellow stars (representing the mainland and five offshore islands) above a gray shield with a silk-cotton tree; below is a scroll with the motto UNIDAD, PAZ, JUSTICIA (Unity, Peace, Justice)
Meaning: Green stands for the jungle and natural resources, blue for the sea, white for peace, and red for the fight for independence
Meaning: Green stands for the jungle and natural resources, blue for the sea, white for peace, and red for the fight for independence
Independence
12 October 1968 (from Spain)
Judicial branch
Highest court(s): Supreme Court of Justice (consists of the President of the Supreme Court and nine judges organized into civil, criminal, commercial, labor, administrative, and customary sections); Constitutional Court (consists of the court president and 4 members)
Judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court judges appointed by the president for five-year terms; Constitutional Court members appointed by the president, 2 of whom are nominated by the Chamber of Deputies
Subordinate courts: Court of Guarantees; military courts; Courts of Appeal; first instance tribunals; district and county tribunals
Judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court judges appointed by the president for five-year terms; Constitutional Court members appointed by the president, 2 of whom are nominated by the Chamber of Deputies
Subordinate courts: Court of Guarantees; military courts; Courts of Appeal; first instance tribunals; district and county tribunals
Legal system
mixed system of civil and customary law
Legislative branch
Legislature name: Parliament (Parlamento)
Legislative structure: Bicameral
Legislative structure: Bicameral
International organization participation
ACP, AfDB, AU, BDEAC, CEMAC, CPLP, FAO, Francophonie, FZ, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IPU, ITSO, ITU, MIGA, NAM, OAS (observer), OIF, OPCW, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNWTO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WTO (observer)
National holiday
Independence Day, 12 October (1968)
Political parties
Center Right Union or UCD
Convergence Party for Social Democracy or CPDS
Democratic Party for Equatorial Guinea or PDGE
Liberal Democratic Convention or CLD
Liberal Party or PL
National Congress of Equatorial Guinea (CNGE)
National Democratic Party (PNDGE)
National Democratic Union or UDENA
National Union for Democracy PUNDGE
Popular Action of Equatorial Guinea or APGE
Popular Union or UP
Progressive Democratic Alliance or ADP
Social and Popular Convergence Party or CSDP
Social Democratic Coalition Party (PCSD)
Social Democratic Party of Equatorial Guinea or PSDGE
Social Democratic Union or UDS
Socialist Party of Equatorial Guinea
Convergence Party for Social Democracy or CPDS
Democratic Party for Equatorial Guinea or PDGE
Liberal Democratic Convention or CLD
Liberal Party or PL
National Congress of Equatorial Guinea (CNGE)
National Democratic Party (PNDGE)
National Democratic Union or UDENA
National Union for Democracy PUNDGE
Popular Action of Equatorial Guinea or APGE
Popular Union or UP
Progressive Democratic Alliance or ADP
Social and Popular Convergence Party or CSDP
Social Democratic Coalition Party (PCSD)
Social Democratic Party of Equatorial Guinea or PSDGE
Social Democratic Union or UDS
Socialist Party of Equatorial Guinea
Suffrage
18 years of age; universal
Government type
presidential republic
Country name
Conventional long form: Republic of Equatorial Guinea
Conventional short form: Equatorial Guinea
Local long form: Republica de Guinea Ecuatorial (Spanish)/ République de Guinée équatoriale (French)
Local short form: Guinea Ecuatorial (Spanish)/Guinée équatoriale (French)
Former: Spanish Guinea
Etymology: The country is named for the Guinea region of West Africa that lies along the Gulf of Guinea and stretches north to the Sahel; the "equatorial" refers to the fact that the country lies just north of the Equator
Conventional short form: Equatorial Guinea
Local long form: Republica de Guinea Ecuatorial (Spanish)/ République de Guinée équatoriale (French)
Local short form: Guinea Ecuatorial (Spanish)/Guinée équatoriale (French)
Former: Spanish Guinea
Etymology: The country is named for the Guinea region of West Africa that lies along the Gulf of Guinea and stretches north to the Sahel; the "equatorial" refers to the fact that the country lies just north of the Equator
Diplomatic representation in the US
Chief of mission: Ambassador Dr. Crisantos OBAMA ONDO (since 27 February 2024)
Chancery: 2020 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
Telephone: [1] (202) 518-5700
FAX: [1] (202) 518-5252
Email address and website:
Info@egembassydc.com
https://www.egembassydc.com/
Consulate(s) general: Houston
Chancery: 2020 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
Telephone: [1] (202) 518-5700
FAX: [1] (202) 518-5252
Email address and website:
Info@egembassydc.com
https://www.egembassydc.com/
Consulate(s) general: Houston
National anthem(s)
Title: "Caminemos pisando la senda" (Let Us Tread the Path)
Lyrics/music: Atanasio Ndongo MIYONO/Atanasio Ndongo MIYONO or Ramiro Sanchez LOPEZ (disputed)
History: Adopted 1968
Lyrics/music: Atanasio Ndongo MIYONO/Atanasio Ndongo MIYONO or Ramiro Sanchez LOPEZ (disputed)
History: Adopted 1968
International law organization participation
accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
National symbol(s)
silk cotton tree
Citizenship
Citizenship by birth: No
Citizenship by descent only: At least one parent must be a citizen of Equatorial Guinea
Dual citizenship recognized: No
Residency requirement for naturalization: 10 years
Citizenship by descent only: At least one parent must be a citizen of Equatorial Guinea
Dual citizenship recognized: No
Residency requirement for naturalization: 10 years
National color(s)
green, white, red, blue
Household income or consumption by percentage share
Lowest 10%: 2.6% (2022 est.)
Highest 10%: 29.1% (2022 est.)
Note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population
Highest 10%: 29.1% (2022 est.)
Note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population
Exports - commodities
crude petroleum, natural gas, alcohols, wood, scrap iron (2023)
note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Exports - partners
China 27%, Netherlands 12%, Spain 10%, Italy 7%, Germany 6% (2023)
note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Agricultural products
sweet potatoes, cassava, plantains, oil palm fruit, root vegetables, bananas, coconuts, coffee, cocoa beans, chicken (2023)
note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
Budget
Revenues: $3.62 billion (2022 est.)
Expenditures: $2.051 billion (2022 est.)
note: central government revenues and expenses (excluding grants/extrabudgetary units/social security funds) converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Expenditures: $2.051 billion (2022 est.)
note: central government revenues and expenses (excluding grants/extrabudgetary units/social security funds) converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Imports - commodities
ships, poultry, plastic products, beer, valves (2023)
note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Exchange rates
Cooperation Financiere en Afrique Centrale francs (XAF) per US dollar -
Exchange rates:
606.345 (2024 est.)
606.57 (2023 est.)
623.76 (2022 est.)
554.531 (2021 est.)
575.586 (2020 est.)
Exchange rates:
606.345 (2024 est.)
606.57 (2023 est.)
623.76 (2022 est.)
554.531 (2021 est.)
575.586 (2020 est.)
Industries
petroleum, natural gas, sawmilling
Economic overview
growing CEMAC economy and new OPEC member; large oil and gas reserves; targeting economic diversification and poverty reduction; still recovering from CEMAC crisis; improving public financial management; persistent poverty; hard-hit by COVID-19
GDP (official exchange rate)
$12.766 billion (2024 est.)
note: data in current dollars at official exchange rate
note: data in current dollars at official exchange rate
GDP - composition, by end use
Household consumption: 52.9% (2024 est.)
Government consumption: 28.3% (2024 est.)
Investment in fixed capital: 9.1% (2024 est.)
Investment in inventories: -0.1% (2024 est.)
Exports of goods and services: 35.2% (2024 est.)
Imports of goods and services: -25.4% (2024 est.)
note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Government consumption: 28.3% (2024 est.)
Investment in fixed capital: 9.1% (2024 est.)
Investment in inventories: -0.1% (2024 est.)
Exports of goods and services: 35.2% (2024 est.)
Imports of goods and services: -25.4% (2024 est.)
note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Imports - partners
China 20%, Spain 17%, USA 10%, Gabon 5%, UK 5% (2023)
note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Remittances
0% of GDP (2023 est.)
0% of GDP (2022 est.)
0% of GDP (2021 est.)
Note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
0% of GDP (2022 est.)
0% of GDP (2021 est.)
Note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
Labor force
715,000 (2024 est.)
note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work
note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold
$1.538 billion (2023 est.)
$1.458 billion (2022 est.)
$44.271 million (2021 est.)
note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
$1.458 billion (2022 est.)
$44.271 million (2021 est.)
note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
Unemployment rate
7.9% (2024 est.)
8.4% (2023 est.)
8.5% (2022 est.)
note: % of labor force seeking employment
8.4% (2023 est.)
8.5% (2022 est.)
note: % of labor force seeking employment
Taxes and other revenues
6.6% (of GDP) (2022 est.)
note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDP
note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDP
Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
$29.248 billion (2024 est.)
$28.985 billion (2023 est.)
$30.539 billion (2022 est.)
note: data in 2021 dollars
$28.985 billion (2023 est.)
$30.539 billion (2022 est.)
note: data in 2021 dollars
Inflation rate (consumer prices)
4.8% (2022 est.)
-0.1% (2021 est.)
4.8% (2020 est.)
note: annual % change based on consumer prices
-0.1% (2021 est.)
4.8% (2020 est.)
note: annual % change based on consumer prices
Real GDP per capita
$15,500 (2024 est.)
$15,700 (2023 est.)
$16,900 (2022 est.)
note: data in 2021 dollars
$15,700 (2023 est.)
$16,900 (2022 est.)
note: data in 2021 dollars
Imports
$3.24 billion (2024 est.)
$3.065 billion (2023 est.)
$3.948 billion (2022 est.)
Note: GDP expenditure basis - imports of goods and services in current dollars
$3.065 billion (2023 est.)
$3.948 billion (2022 est.)
Note: GDP expenditure basis - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Exports
$4.489 billion (2024 est.)
$4.516 billion (2023 est.)
$7.25 billion (2022 est.)
Note: GDP expenditure basis - exports of goods and services in current dollars
$4.516 billion (2023 est.)
$7.25 billion (2022 est.)
Note: GDP expenditure basis - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Real GDP growth rate
0.9% (2024 est.)
-5.1% (2023 est.)
3.2% (2022 est.)
note: annual GDP % growth based on constant local currency
-5.1% (2023 est.)
3.2% (2022 est.)
note: annual GDP % growth based on constant local currency
Industrial production growth rate
0.8% (2024 est.)
note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
GDP - composition, by sector of origin
Agriculture: 3.1% (2024 est.)
Industry: 45.8% (2024 est.)
Services: 51.1% (2024 est.)
note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
Industry: 45.8% (2024 est.)
Services: 51.1% (2024 est.)
note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
Electricity access
Electrification - total population: 67% (2022 est.)
Electrification - urban areas: 89.8%
Electrification - rural areas: 1.4%
Electrification - urban areas: 89.8%
Electrification - rural areas: 1.4%
Coal
Imports: 8 metric tons (2023 est.)
Electricity generation sources
Fossil fuels: 68.6% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Hydroelectricity: 31.4% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Hydroelectricity: 31.4% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Natural gas
Production: 6.013 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
Consumption: 2.332 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
Exports: 3.63 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
Proven reserves: 139.007 billion cubic meters (2021 est.)
Consumption: 2.332 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
Exports: 3.63 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
Proven reserves: 139.007 billion cubic meters (2021 est.)
Petroleum
Total petroleum production: 98,000 bbl/day (2023 est.)
Refined petroleum consumption: 6,000 bbl/day (2023 est.)
Crude oil estimated reserves: 1.1 billion barrels (2021 est.)
Refined petroleum consumption: 6,000 bbl/day (2023 est.)
Crude oil estimated reserves: 1.1 billion barrels (2021 est.)
Electricity
Installed generating capacity: 349,000 kW (2023 est.)
Consumption: 1.402 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Transmission/distribution losses: 170.527 million kWh (2023 est.)
Consumption: 1.402 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Transmission/distribution losses: 170.527 million kWh (2023 est.)
Internet users
Percent of population: 60% (2023 est.)
Internet country code
.gq
Broadcast media
the state maintains control of broadcast media; 1 state-owned TV station, 1 private TV station owned by the president's eldest son, 1 state-owned radio station, and 1 private radio station owned by the president's eldest son; satellite TV service is available; transmissions of multiple international broadcasters are generally accessible (2019)
Telephones - mobile cellular
Total subscriptions: 893,000 (2022 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 53 (2022 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 53 (2022 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions
Total: 2,000 (2022 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: (2022 est.) less than 1
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: (2022 est.) less than 1
Telephones - fixed lines
Total subscriptions: 11,000 (2022 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 1 (2022 est.) less than 1
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 1 (2022 est.) less than 1
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix
3C
Airports
7 (2025)
Merchant marine
Total: 53 (2023)
By type: Bulk carrier 1, general cargo 16, oil tanker 7, other 29
By type: Bulk carrier 1, general cargo 16, oil tanker 7, other 29
Military service age and obligation
18 years of age for selective compulsory military service, although conscription is rare in practice; 24-month service obligation (2023)
Military expenditures
1% of GDP (2024)
1.6% of GDP (2023 est.)
1.3% of GDP (2022 est.)
1.3% of GDP (2021 est.)
1.6% of GDP (2020 est.)
1.6% of GDP (2023 est.)
1.3% of GDP (2022 est.)
1.3% of GDP (2021 est.)
1.6% of GDP (2020 est.)
Military and security forces
Equatorial Guinea Armed Forces (Fuerzas Armadas de Guinea Ecuatorial, FAGE): Army, Navy, Air Force, Gendarmerie (Guardia Civil) (2025)
Note: The National Police report to the Ministry of National Security, while the Gendarmerie reports to the Ministry of National Defense; police generally are responsible for maintaining law and order in the cities, while gendarmes are responsible for security outside cities and for special events
Note: The National Police report to the Ministry of National Security, while the Gendarmerie reports to the Ministry of National Defense; police generally are responsible for maintaining law and order in the cities, while gendarmes are responsible for security outside cities and for special events
Military - note
the Armed Forces of Equatorial Guinea (FAGE) are responsible for defending the territory and sovereignty of the country; the FAGE also has some internal security duties, including fulfilling some police functions in border areas, sensitive sites, and high-traffic areas; maritime security, particularly protecting offshore oil installations and combating piracy and crime in the Gulf of Guinea, is a key priority (2024)
Military and security service personnel strengths
estimated 2,000 active Armed Forces, including Gendarmerie (2025)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions
the FAGE is armed with mostly older (typically Soviet-era) and second-hand weapons systems; in recent years, it has sought to modernize its naval inventory with purchases of vessels from several countries, including Bulgaria and Israel; China and Russia have also supplied some equipment to the FAGE (2024)
Refugees and internally displaced persons
Refugees: 5 (2024 est.)
Ports
Total ports: 7 (2024)
Large: 0
Medium: 0
Small: 1
Very small: 6
Ports with oil terminals: 6
Key ports: Bata, Ceiba Terminal, Cogo, Luba, Malabo, Punta Europa Terminal, Serpentina Terminal
Large: 0
Medium: 0
Small: 1
Very small: 6
Ports with oil terminals: 6
Key ports: Bata, Ceiba Terminal, Cogo, Luba, Malabo, Punta Europa Terminal, Serpentina Terminal
Legislative branch - lower chamber
Chamber name: Chamber of Deputies (Cámara de los Diputados)
Number of seats: 100 (all directly elected)
Electoral system: Proportional representation
Scope of elections: Full renewal
Term in office: 5 years
Most recent election date: 11/20/2022
Parties elected and seats per party: Democratic Party of Equatorial Guinea (PDGE) and its allies (100)
Percentage of women in chamber: 31%
Expected date of next election: November 2027
Number of seats: 100 (all directly elected)
Electoral system: Proportional representation
Scope of elections: Full renewal
Term in office: 5 years
Most recent election date: 11/20/2022
Parties elected and seats per party: Democratic Party of Equatorial Guinea (PDGE) and its allies (100)
Percentage of women in chamber: 31%
Expected date of next election: November 2027
Legislative branch - upper chamber
Chamber name: Senate (Senado)
Number of seats: 70 (55 directly elected; 15 appointed)
Electoral system: Proportional representation
Scope of elections: Full renewal
Term in office: 5 years
Most recent election date: 11/20/2022
Parties elected and seats per party: Democratic Party of Equatorial Guinea (PDGE) and its allies (55)
Percentage of women in chamber: 25%
Expected date of next election: November 2027
Number of seats: 70 (55 directly elected; 15 appointed)
Electoral system: Proportional representation
Scope of elections: Full renewal
Term in office: 5 years
Most recent election date: 11/20/2022
Parties elected and seats per party: Democratic Party of Equatorial Guinea (PDGE) and its allies (55)
Percentage of women in chamber: 25%
Expected date of next election: November 2027
National coat of arms
the national symbol, the silk cotton tree, is in the center of the coat of arms; the tree represents the location where the first treaty was signed between local rulers and the Portuguese; the stars above the tree symbolize the mainland and the five offshore islands; a ribbon below the shield displays the national motto, “Unidad, Paz, Justicia” (Unity, Peace, Justice)
Methane emissions
Energy: 129.8 kt (2022-2024 est.)
Agriculture: 0.4 kt (2019-2021 est.)
Waste: 10 kt (2019-2021 est.)
Other: 2.2 kt (2019-2021 est.)
Agriculture: 0.4 kt (2019-2021 est.)
Waste: 10 kt (2019-2021 est.)
Other: 2.2 kt (2019-2021 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income
38.5 (2022 est.)
Note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequality
Note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequality