West Africa’s Rising Star
Executive Snapshot
- Population: ~18 million
- GDP (nominal): ~$28–35 billion
- Currency: CFA franc (XOF)
- Main sectors: Services, agribusiness, mining, oil & gas
- Top trade partners: EU, ECOWAS, China
- Regional role: Gateway to West Africa and emerging oil & gas hub
Macroeconomic Overview
Strong services and agribusiness base; first oil & gas from GTA/Sangomar reshapes the energy mix. Dakar’s stability and infrastructure (Port, Blaise‑Diagne Airport) position Senegal as a regional HQ. PPPs and industrial zones (DISEZ) support manufacturing and exports.
Strategic Sectors and Opportunities
- Oil & gas: Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (with Mauritania), Sangomar project
- Agribusiness: groundnuts, horticulture, fisheries processing
- Digital & fintech: mobile money, e‑services and startups
- Infrastructure: port expansions, toll roads and power IPPs
Business Environment and Regulation
Investor‑friendly reforms and PPP frameworks; OHADA/WAEMU stability; regional market access (ECOWAS). One‑stop agencies improve permitting; industrial parks near Dakar streamline utilities and customs.
Risks and Challenges
- Execution risks and social acceptance for energy projects
- External shocks (commodity and climate)
- Urban congestion and logistics bottlenecks
Atlas Development Insights
Atlas Development operates in Senegal through its equity-associated office in Dakar, providing a strong and permanent base in Francophone West Africa. Senegal’s economy is diversified, with services, agribusiness, and infrastructure as its foundation, and oil & gas projects (Greater Tortue Ahmeyim, Sangomar) now reshaping its outlook. These sectors attract global companies from Europe, North America, Asia, and beyond, seeking opportunities in energy, agri-processing, cold-chain, construction, and digital services. We support clients with market studies, partner qualification, and B2B agendas, while ensuring corporate compliance and due diligence on PPP frameworks, local partners, and regulatory processes. This combination of local anchoring and compliance rigor allows international firms to explore Senegal’s opportunities with confidence.