Key Facts

GDP (ppp) per CAPITA

$53,100 (2008 est.)

Inflation Rate

0.3% (2007 est.)

Population

388,190 (July 2009 est.)

Ease of Doing Business

88/181

Global Competitiveness

4.54/134

Country Map

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Brunei : Introduction

The Sultanate of Brunei's influence peaked between the 15th and 17th centuries when its control extended over coastal areas of northwest Borneo and the southern Philippines. Brunei subsequently entered a period of decline brought on by internal strife over royal succession, colonial expansion of European powers, and piracy. In 1888, Brunei became a British protectorate; independence was achieved in 1984. The same family has ruled Brunei for over six centuries. Brunei benefits from extensive petroleum and natural gas fields, the source of one of the highest per capita GDPs in Asia.

Brunei: The Prime Minister's Office of Brunei Darussalam

This is the official site of Brunei's Prime Minister. Information can be found here, including speeches, press releases, photo galleries, and historical and cultural details of Brunei. It also contains links to each of Brunei's government ministries.

Sources:
CIA World Factbook (September 2009)
U.S. Dept. of State Country Background Notes (June 2009)