The Poorest Countries in the World by GDP Per Capita in 2025
According to the latest projections from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), significant economic disparities continue to define the global landscape in 2025. A recent analysis highlights the world’s poorest countries based on GDP per capita, underscoring the persistent challenges faced by developing nations despite ongoing efforts toward growth and stability.
At the bottom of the list, South Sudan remains the poorest country, with an estimated GDP per capita of just $300. Ongoing conflict, political instability, and weak infrastructure have severely limited economic progress. Close behind is Yemen at $400, where prolonged war and humanitarian crises have devastated living standards. Other nations such as Burundi ($500), Central African Republic ($500), Malawi ($600), and Madagascar ($600) also rank among the lowest, reflecting the broader struggles of Sub-Saharan Africa, which, as a region, records an average GDP per capita of $1,600—the lowest in the world.
The data reveals that out of the 50 poorest nations, the overwhelming majority are in Africa, where limited access to healthcare, education, and technological infrastructure continues to constrain development. Countries like Nigeria ($800), despite being resource-rich and home to one of Africa’s largest populations, still face widespread poverty due to governance challenges and uneven wealth distribution.
Interestingly, the list also features countries outside Africa. In Asia, Afghanistan (data missing), Bangladesh ($2,700), Nepal ($1,500), Myanmar ($1,200), and Cambodia ($2,900) highlight how parts of South and Southeast Asia continue to grapple with poverty. India, despite being the world’s fourth-largest economy, appears on the chart with a GDP per capita of $2,900, making it the 50th poorest country in 2025. This reflects the reality of its vast population: while the economy is expanding rapidly, per capita income remains low compared to global averages.
In the Americas, Haiti ($2,700) continues to struggle with deep-rooted poverty, political instability, and natural disasters. In Oceania, countries like Papua New Guinea ($2,600) and Kiribati ($2,400) also feature on the list, highlighting the vulnerabilities of small island and developing states.
For perspective, the global average GDP per capita in 2025 is $14,200, underscoring the sharp divide between the world’s richest and poorest economies.
This data serves as a reminder of the urgent need for targeted policies, international cooperation, and sustainable development strategies to bridge the gap between nations. While economic growth is visible in several emerging markets, lifting millions out of poverty remains one of the most pressing challenges of the 21st century.
