Guinea : economy statistics and industry reports

In the time since a 2008 coup following the death of long-term President Lansana CONTE, international donors, including the G-8, the IMF, and the World Bank, have significantly curtailed their development programs.

Throughout 2009, policies of the ruling military junta severely weakened the economy.

The junta leaders spent and printed money at an accelerated rate, driving inflation and debt to perilously high levels.

In early 2010, the junta collapsed and was replaced by a Transition Government, which ceded power in December 2010 to the country's first-ever democratically elected president, Alpha CONDE.

International assistance and investment are expected to return to Guinea, but the levels will depend upon the ability of the new government to combat corruption and reform its banking system.

IMF and World Bank programs will be especially critical as Guinea attempts to gain debt relief.

Since the 2009 global economic downturn, the price and value of bauxite and alumina exports has steadily risen.

Export levels will likely continue to grow as investor confidence returns.

International investors have expressed keen interest in Guinea's vast iron ore reserves, which could further propel the country's growth.