The economy is predominantly agricultural, with about two-thirds of the country's active population engaged in farming, forestry, and fishing. The agricultural sector, including forestry and agro-industries, account for about 40 percent of GDP, while generating 70 percent of total export revenues in 1994.
Exports continue to be dominated by cocoa, coffee, and timber.
High population growth coupled with economic decline has resulted in a steady fall of living standards. Social indicators have also been deteriorating, reflecting, among others, the effects of the economic crisis as well as neglect of basic social services. The transition period was marked by considerable political uncertainties and culminated in serious civil disturbances prior to the presidential elections. This resulted in the main opposition parties eventually boycotting the elections. Nonetheless, the parliamentary elections of November 1995 were conducted with full representation of all parties and resulted in President B di claiming a landslide victory.