Despite its diversified economy, Bahrain has nonetheless faced pressures in recent years as a result of the 2014-15 drop in global oil prices. However, a multibillion-dollar aid package from other Gulf states and an accompanying fiscal adjustment plan, as well as growth following a partial oil price recovery and a major oil and gas discovery, offer hope for an economic turnaround in 2019.
Côte d’Ivoire has returned to economic growth after stabilising its political situation in 2011. The economy has grown at a rate of 9% per year since 2011, in part due to the emergence of its burgeoning industrial sector. As one of the fastest-growing African economies, with an annual GDP growth rate forecast at 7-7.5% in 2019, Côte d’Ivoire is now promoting sustainable and inclusive growth.
Although Myanmar has been faced with internal conflict, a new long-term economic agenda, alongside rising oil and gas prices and considerable growth in some manufacturing segments, are set to encourage increased foreign direct investment inflows into the country.
Following the global oil price drop in 2014, Oman – like the other GCC states – is pushing ahead with its long-term national development plans that seek to diversify the economy.
Algeria is a key producer of hydrocarbons in Africa, ranking first in gas output and among the top three for oil. It depends on the sector for the majority of government revenue and nearly all exports. Despite reforms to encourage private sector development, promote diversification and attract FDI, the state plays a preponderant role, meaning that changes to government expenditure and investment continue to have a large impact on economic performance.
Combining oil and gas wealth with the entrepreneurial efforts of its predominantly young population, Nigeria has developed a business-friendly environment over the past two decades of civilian rule. The country has effectively leveraged its abundance of natural resources and harnessed the strength of its 193m-strong population to become a key nation both on the African continent and beyond.