---
title: "Rentier State — AP Comp Gov Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "A rentier state funds its government mainly through oil and gas exports instead of taxes. See how Iran, Nigeria, and Russia fit Topic 5.9 and the resource curse."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-comp-gov/key-terms/rentier-state"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Comparative Government"
---

# Rentier State — AP Comp Gov Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

A rentier state is a country that relies heavily on income from external sources, such as natural resources or foreign aid, rather than its own productive activities.

## Related Study Guides

- [5.9 Impact of Natural Resources](/ap-comp-gov/unit-5/impact-natural-resources/study-guide/asUKEo6gLBPoaAnvCgPN)

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Resource Curse](/ap-comp-gov/key-terms/resource-curse): The resource curse refers to the negative consequences that can arise in countries rich in natural resources, such as corruption, economic instability, and inequality.
- Economic Diversification: Economic diversification is the process of expanding an economy by reducing its dependence on one industry or source of income and developing other sectors.
- Foreign Aid: Foreign aid refers to financial assistance provided by one country to another for various purposes like development projects, humanitarian relief, or economic support.