Markets
Doing business in Senegal
14.72° N · 17.47° W
Senegal is a stable West African democracy of about 18 million people and a member of UEMOA, ECOWAS and OHADA. Its capital, Dakar, is a regional hub for logistics, services and international organisations, and the start of offshore oil production in 2024, with gas following, opened a new chapter for its economy.
Key facts
- Capital
- Dakar
- Population
- About 18 million (2023 census)
- Currency
- West African CFA franc (XOF)
- Investment agency
- APIX
- Energy
- First oil at Sangomar (2024); Greater Tortue Ahmeyim LNG
- Business law
- OHADA, UEMOA, ECOWAS member
Senegal has long been one of the most stable countries in West Africa. Dakar sits at the westernmost point of the continent, with a major port, a modern airport and a deep-water port under development at Ndayane.
Oil production began at the offshore Sangomar field in 2024, and the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim gas project, shared with Mauritania, followed. Around these projects, demand for services, infrastructure and local suppliers is growing.
Sectors with momentum
- Oil, gas and energy services
- Supply chains, local content and services around the new offshore projects.
- Logistics and infrastructure
- Ports, roads, industrial parks and urban development around Dakar and Diamniadio.
- Agriculture and fisheries
- Groundnuts, horticulture, rice and fisheries, with needs in processing and cold chain.
- Services and digital
- A strong services sector, regional headquarters and a growing digital ecosystem.
How we help here
Assess
A market study for your sector in Senegal.
Connect
Meetings with partners, buyers and institutions in Dakar.
Establish
Company setup and representation, with a regional plan.
Frequently asked questions
How do I invest in Senegal as a foreign company?
APIX, the national investment promotion agency, is the entry point for investors and company creation. Companies operate under OHADA business law. We prepare your entry and coordinate with local professionals.
What opportunities come with Senegal's oil and gas?
Beyond the operators themselves, opportunities lie in services, logistics, equipment, training and local supply, all areas where local-content rules favour companies established in Senegal.
Is Senegal a good base for West Africa?
Yes, for many companies. It is stable, well connected by air and sea, and home to the BCEAO, the central bank of the UEMOA zone.