Economic growth and development in South Sudan are severely constrained.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has released a report highlighting the world’s poorest countries based on purchasing power parity (PPP) adjusted gross domestic product (GDP) per capita. GDP is a measure of a country’s economic aggregate, while PPP takes into account the cost of living and can more accurately reflect living standards. Forbes.
that report The situation in South Sudan is very serious. South Sudan is the poorest country in the world, with a per capita GDP purchasing power parity of only US$492.72. The world’s youngest country, which gained independence in 2011, faces significant challenges due to political instability, ongoing conflict and limited infrastructure.
| nation | GDP per capita |
|---|---|
| 1: South Sudan | $492.72 |
| 2: Burundi | $936.42 |
| 3: Central African Republic (CAR) | $1,140.00 |
| 4: Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) | $1,570.00 |
| 5: Mozambique | $1,650.00 |
| 6: Malawi | $1,710.00 |
| 7: Niger | $1,730.00 |
| 8: Chad | $1,860.00 |
| 9: Liberia | $1,880.00 |
| 10: Madagascar | $1,990.00 |
South Sudan is followed by Burundi ($936.42), Central African Republic ($1,140.00), Democratic Republic of Congo ($1,570.00) and Mozambique ($1,650.00). These countries face common dilemmas, including political instability, civil conflict, inadequate infrastructure and reliance on rain-fed agriculture, making them vulnerable to climate shocks and food insecurity.
The report also explores the cases of Malawi ($1,710.00), Niger ($1,730.00), Chad ($1,860.00), Liberia ($1,880.00) and Madagascar ($1,990.00). These countries, primarily located in sub-Saharan Africa, have limited resources, rapid population growth, and heavy dependence on agriculture, leaving them vulnerable to poverty.
The report calls on the international community to take action to address the root causes of poverty in these countries. Investing in infrastructure, promoting economic diversification and promoting political stability are key steps for these countries to move towards a brighter future.
In 2024, Yemen is the Asian country facing the most severe economic challenges, with per capita GDP estimated at $2,136. However, the accuracy of this figure remains elusive as ongoing conflict disrupts precise economic assessments.
On the contrary, Luxembourg is known as the richest country in the world in terms of GDP per capita, with a GDP per capita Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) of an astounding US$145,834. Meanwhile, India’s GDP per capita (PPP) as of 2024 is US$9.89 million, reflecting its position in the global economic landscape.
