Overview of the world's poorest countries in 2025: analysis of GDP per capita

Global economic disparities reach extreme levels when examining average income per capita. The ranking of the 50 least prosperous nations reveals a concerning economic reality, where some countries survive on less than $300 per person annually. These figures reflect not only poverty but also structural challenges hindering the economic development of the most vulnerable regions.

At the Heart of the Economic Crisis: the Poorest Countries in the World

South Sudan holds the most critical position with a GDP per capita of only $251, followed by Yemen ($417) and Burundi ($490). These three nations are fighting major economic obstacles, including political instability, regional conflicts, and inadequate infrastructure. Central African Republic ($532), Malawi ($580), and Madagascar ($595) complete this top 6 of the most dramatic situations.

The top ten positions highlight a concentration in the African continent:

• South Sudan: $251
• Yemen: $417
• Burundi: $490
• Central African Republic: $532
• Malawi: $580
• Madagascar: $595
• Sudan: $625
• Mozambique: $663
• DRC: $743
• Niger: $751

African Domination in the List of the Poorest Nations

Geographical analysis of the world’s poorest countries reveals an alarming overrepresentation of Sub-Saharan Africa. Out of the 50 least prosperous nations, more than 35 are located on the African continent. This concentration reflects historical, structural, and geopolitical challenges affecting the region.

Critical zones also emerge in South Asia and the Pacific. Myanmar ($1,177), Tajikistan ($1,432), Nepal ($1,458), and Timor-Leste ($1,491) are among the poorest countries in Asia according to this indicator. Bangladesh ($2,689), despite its large population, remains economically fragile for its residents.

Complete Ranking and Economic Trends

The extended list of the 50 poorest countries continues with Somalia ($766), Nigeria ($807), Liberia ($908), Sierra Leone ($916), Mali ($936), Gambia ($988), and Chad ($991). Rwanda and Togo are beginning to show signs of slight progress with GDP per capita of $1,043 and $1,053 respectively.

Ethiopia ($1,066), Lesotho ($1,098), and Burkina Faso ($1,107) mark the transition to slightly more developed economies, though still among the least prosperous overall. Guinea-Bissau ($1,126) and Tanzania ($1,280) continue this progressive trend.

Zambia ($1,332) and Uganda ($1,338) approach $1,500, while other African countries like Zimbabwe ($2,199), Congo ($2,356), Kenya ($2,468), and Ghana ($2,519) gradually surpass $2,000 in GDP per capita.

Economic Context and Structural Challenges

The world’s poorest nations face systemic obstacles: dependence on agriculture, lack of economic diversification, insufficient investment in infrastructure and human capital. Armed conflicts, corruption, and political instability worsen these conditions in many regions.

India, despite its 1.4 billion inhabitants and emerging power status, ranks low with a GDP per capita of $2,878. This paradox illustrates how national averages can mask extreme inequalities within even large economies.

Haiti ($2,672), Bangladesh ($2,689), and Cambodia ($2,870) represent specific challenges in Southeast Asia and the Caribbean, where despite development efforts, per capita incomes remain precarious.

Perspectives and Future Implications

These data on the world’s poorest countries highlight the urgency of sustainable development interventions. Global economic inequalities persist, and the least prosperous regions require particular attention to accelerate their economic growth and improve living conditions.