Mauritania

Last updated: May 9, 2025

The Islamic Republic of Mauritania is located on the western edge of the Sahara Desert, which covers approximately 70% of its territory. Nearly three times the size of Germany, Mauritania has a relatively small population of about 5.3 million people (2025 estimate). The capital, Nouakchott, lies on the Atlantic coast and serves as the political and economic hub of the country.

After gaining independence from France in 1960 and enduring several decades of authoritarian rule, Mauritania has gradually transitioned towards democracy. The country is governed as a presidential republic, led by Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, who was re-elected in June 2024 for a second and final five-year term, in line with constitutional limits. His predecessor, Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz, also respected the two-term rule.

Despite institutional progress, structural inequality and the legacy of slavery continue to hamper economic and social development. These challenges are closely linked to the country’s complex ethnic composition: roughly 40% are “Black Moors” (Arabic-speaking descendants of Sub-Saharan slaves), 30% “White Moors” (of Arab and Amazigh heritage), and 30% belong to non-Arabic-speaking Sub-Saharan communities. Addressing disparities between these groups remains a national priority.

Mauritania’s economy is primarily based on exports of iron ore and fishery products. The country has signed numerous fisheries agreements, and plays a leading role in iron ore production, ranking as the third-largest producer in Africa after South Africa and Sierra Leone. It is also among the top fifteen iron ore exporters globally. In addition, Mauritania exports copper, gold, silver, oil, and gas, and possesses large untapped phosphate reserves. Agriculture, livestock, and fisheries remain vital sectors, though manufacturing is minimal.

Mauritania is also one of only five Arab countries whose exports to Germany exceed its imports, albeit slightly primarily through fish and mineral exports.

The biennial “Mauritanides” mining, oil, and gas conference showcases Mauritania’s ambitions to become a regional hub in extractive industries. Recent gas developments, including the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) offshore field, which began production in early 2025, are expected to significantly boost GDP in the coming years. Already in 2024, the economy grew by 4.2%, with projections of 5.5% in 2025, outpacing population growth, which remains high at around 2.5% per year.

In partnership with international donors, Mauritania has developed a national action program for sustainable development. The strategy aims to diversify the economy, secure basic services, and improve infrastructure. In this context, renewable energy, especially solar power, is a key focus and presents attractive opportunities for foreign investment.

Mauritania also has significant natural heritage, including two major national parks: the Parc National de Diawling in the south, bordering Senegal, and the Parc National du Banc d’Arguin on the Atlantic coast—an important wetland and UNESCO World Heritage Site. These areas are not only essential for biodiversity conservation but also hold potential for eco-tourism development.