(e) At its first regular session of 1985, the Revolutionary National Assembly decided to defray the wages of the local communities through the national budgetl (f) In Aprit 1985, the Government decided to cease systematic recruitment of students who had completed their trainingr (S) The encroachment of the desert, which has a negative impact on agricultural production and results in an inrnediate food deficit, remains a permanent concern of the Beninese authorities. In this context, in April 1985 the Government organized a national seninar on desertification, at the conclusion of which I June was declared Tree Day.A/40/44L Engli sh Page 5 2. lilational accounts 8. In 1982' gross domestic product (GDP) at the current market price in CFA francs increased by 21.5 per cent, or 9.6 per cent in real terms, thanks to thegenerally favourable economic situation in the subregion, particularly in respectof transit activities and re-exportation to Nigeria. In 1983, however, GDp atcurrent prices increased by only 10.6 per cent, or zero growth in real terms,reflecting the economic crisis which slowed down economic activities throughout the subregion. 9. The economic crisis continued in 1984: GDP at current prices increased by8.6 per cent, a reduction in real terms. lO. The GDP projections for 1985 shon an increaee of 11.5 per cent at currentprices and 2.7 per cent in real terms. llhese projectiona are based on the assumption that the slight recovery noted in ilanuary-February 1985 will continue. Table I Benint Evolution of GDp at current prices (Blllions of CFA francs) a/ Year Sector of activity1982* r983* 1984* 1985** Primary sector Secondary sector Tertiary sector GDP at factor coEt Net. indirect taxes GDP at market pricesr4s.88 42.26 14{.63 332.77 34.05 366.82167.63 50.68 150.76 379.07 26.58 405.6519s. 11 57.27 16s. s9 4r7.97 22.48 440.4s224.27 65.74 L7 6.96 466.97 24 490.97 Source s tlational * Estimate.
**Analysis**
The text discusses the economic situation of Benin in 1982-1985, including the evolution of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), the impact of the desertification on agriculture, and the organization of a national seminar on desertification. These topics suggest a focus on economic development and environmental issues, which are closely linked.

**Category**
Economic development, Natural resources and environment