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Economic disparities continue to shape the global landscape, particularly in developing nations. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has projected the GDP per capita for 2025, highlighting the countries with the lowest economic output per person. Here is a look at the top 50 poorest countries in the world, ranked by their estimated GDP per capita.
1. South Sudan – $300
The world’s youngest nation continues to struggle severely with economic challenges.
2. Yemen – $400
Ongoing conflicts have devastated Yemen’s economy and infrastructure.
3. Burundi – $500
Chronic poverty and political instability hinder progress in Burundi.
4. Central African Republic – $500
Access to resources and stable governance remains a significant issue.
5. Malawi – $600
Malawi’s dependence on agriculture makes it vulnerable to economic shocks.
6. Madagascar – $600
Biodiversity and natural resources are not enough to overcome economic woes.
7. Sudan – $600
Political instability continues to impact economic growth.
8. Mozambique – $700
Despite rich resources, poor governance and climate change pose challenges.
9. Democratic Republic of the Congo – $700
Rich in natural resources, but corruption and conflict hamper prosperity.
10. Niger – $800
Food insecurity and malnutrition are widespread issues.
11. Somalia – $800
Lack of governance and security impacts economic development.
12. Nigeria – $800
Despite being Africa’s largest economy, wealth distribution remains unequal.
13. Liberia – $900
Post-conflict recovery remains slow, limiting economic growth.
14. Sierra Leone – $900
The legacy of civil war continues to stifle economic development.
15. Mali – $900
Political instability impacts agriculture, a key economic sector.
16. The Gambia – $1,000
Tourism and agriculture are mainstays, but progress remains limited.
17. Chad – $1,000
Persistent drought and instability hinder development.
18. Rwanda – $1,000
Although making strides, Rwanda’s economic challenges are still significant.
19. Togo – $1,100
Infrastructure issues are a barrier to economic growth.
20. Ethiopia – $1,100
Rapid population growth outpaces economic development.
21. Lesotho – $1,100
Lesotho relies heavily on South Africa for economic stability.
22. Burkina Faso – $1,100
Terrorism and political unrest have impacted security and development.
23. Guinea-Bissau – $1,100
Fragile political systems hamper potential growth.
24. Myanmar – $1,200
Political turmoil continues to stifle economic potential.
25. Tanzania – $1,300
While progress is being made, economic inequality persists.
26. Zambia – $1,300
Dependence on copper exports leaves Zambia vulnerable to market shifts.
27. Uganda – $1,300
Growing population pressures need urgent attention.
28. Tajikistan – $1,400
Remittances form a significant part of the economy amid high poverty rates.
29. Nepal – $1,500
Natural disasters and political instability have limited growth.
30. Timor-Leste – $1,500
Although wealth from oil exists, management remains a challenge.
31. Benin – $1,500
Improvements needed in agriculture and infrastructure are apparent.
32. Comoros – $1,700
Challenges include high unemployment and underdeveloped sectors.
33. Senegal – $1,800
Investment in infrastructure and agriculture could catalyze growth.
34. Cameroon – $1,900
Conflicts in specific regions hamper overall economic progress.
35. Guinea – $1,900
Rich in minerals but struggling with poverty and governance issues.
36. Laos – $2,100
Strategic investments could help lift economic conditions.
37. Zimbabwe – $2,200
Economic reforms are critical amidst ongoing challenges.
38. Republic of Congo – $2,400
Natural resources exploitation needs better management for benefit.
39. Solomon Islands – $2,400
Limited access to markets constrains economic growth.
40. Kiribati – $2,400
Climate change poses significant risks to its economy.
41. Kenya – $2,500
A growing tech sector offers some promise amidst challenges.
42. Mauritania – $2,500
Economic potential exists, but poverty remains a significant issue.
43. Ghana – $2,500
Challenges in resource management limit growth potential.
44. Papua New Guinea – $2,600
Economic reliance on resources raises vulnerability to global market shifts.
45. Haiti – $2,700
Natural disasters and political issues hinder recovery efforts.
46. Bangladesh – $2,700
Rapid industrialization presents both opportunities and challenges.
47. Kyrgyzstan – $2,700
Economic reliance on agriculture makes it prone to shocks.
48. Cambodia – $2,900
Manufacturing growth is evident but needs broader development.
49. Côte d’Ivoire – $2,900
An emerging economy faces challenges of inequality and governance.
50. India – $2,900
Despite being the fourth-largest economy, disparities are stark.
Additional Insights
- The average GDP per capita across the world is approximately $14,200.
- Sub-Saharan Africa remains the poorest region, with an average GDP per capita of $1,600.
- Despite economic progress globally, many nations still face significant challenges that hinder inclusive growth.
These figures highlight the urgency for international support and policy reform in the affected countries, as millions continue to live in extreme poverty.