Discusses key economic indicators and trade statistics, which countries are dominant in the market, the U.S. market share, the political situation if relevant, the top reasons why U.S. companies should consider exporting to this country, and other issues that affect trade, e.g., terrorism, currency devaluations, trade agreements.
Last Published: 6/15/2016

São Tomé and Príncipe (STP) is located in the Gulf of Guinea and has a population of approximately 190,000 people.

STP gained independence from Portugal in 1975.  The two countries maintain strong economic, political, and cultural ties.

On August 7, 2011, former President Manuel Pinto da Costa won the presidential election and was sworn in to office on September 3.  President Pinto da Costa was also President from 1975 to 1990 when he ushered in multi-party rule.  Since his election, he has focused his efforts on ensuring national stability and fighting corruption.  The next presidential elections will be held on July 17, 2016.

Free and fair legislative and municipal elections held in October 2014 led to a peaceful transition of power to a new government led by the Independent Democratic Action (ADI) party.  Prime Minister Patrice Trovoada, who assumed his position on November 28, 2014, is focused on attracting foreign investment and creating credible economic growth.
 
Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita in 2014 was USD 1.753. GDP growth in 2014 was 6.9 percent.  Inflation was 6.43 percent in 2014.

STP’s 2015 budget expenditures were USD 130.9 million. 

The economy is reliant on agriculture, with cocoa production accounting for a significant majority of total exports.  STP is attempting to develop the tourism and fisheries industries in order to diversify its economy. 

STP uses the Dobra (STD), which is valued at approximately 22,000 STD=1 USD.  The Dobra is pegged to the Euro.

Prepared by our U.S. Embassies abroad. With its network of 108 offices across the United States and in more than 75 countries, the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce utilizes its global presence and international marketing expertise to help U.S. companies sell their products and services worldwide. Locate the U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist in the U.S. nearest you by visiting http://export.gov/usoffices.