The economy of Benin remains underdeveloped and dependent on subsistence agriculture and cotton. Cotton accounts for 40% of GDP and roughly 80% of official export receipts. There is also production of textiles, palm products, and cocoa beans. Maize (corn), beans, rice, peanuts, cashews, pineapples, cassava, yams, and other various tubers are grown for local subsistence. Benin began producing a modest quantity of offshore oil in October 1982. Production ceased in recent years but exploration of new sites is ongoing. A modest fishing fleet provides fish and shrimp for local subsistence and export to Europe. Formerly government-owned commercial activities are now privatized. A French brewer acquired the former state-run brewery. Smaller businesses are privately owned by Beninese citizens, but some firms are foreign owned, primarily French and Lebanese. The private commercial and agricultural sectors remain the principal contributors to growth.

We have just started the projects. In about two months our first two sections will go forward that includes a small power plant. Once we have more data, larger projects can start.

Benin Electrical Power use is at 70 KWH per person from a goal of say 5000 KWH per person. This means that we have to add many projects to increase the level and hence the projects will provide the right path. The catch is to provide correct projects to make them sustainable and provide decent living for all.