Chad - Future trends

Provided Chad's civil unrest is resolved, Chad's economy could improve. The boost expected by the oil production project in the southern Doba Basin region will help in the service sector as well, creating transportation jobs in particular. The construction phase began in October 2000 and is due to finish by 2004. Once production begins, this Exxon-led project will double current government revenue. The increased revenue will allow Chad to invest in social programs and reduce its dependency on foreign donors. Chad should experience improvement in other parts of the economy as well, especially in the cotton industry, which is scheduled to be privatized over the next several years. Despite the improved economic prospects for Chad, political stability remains the most important factor for economic progress in the country.