A recent list of the world’s poorest countries, based on GDP per capita (PPP) data from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as of January 16, 2025, has been published by Forbes India.
Surprisingly, Pakistan and Bangladesh are not on the list, despite ongoing economic challenges in both countries.
The list includes 10 countries, eight of which are in Africa. Madagascar, a key ally of India in the Indian Ocean region, ranks 10th, highlighting the challenges even among nations with strategic importance.
10 Poorest Countries in the World (2025)
1. South Sudan
South Sudan, the world’s youngest country (independent since 2011), ranks as the poorest.
GDP: $29.99 billion
Population: 11.1 million
It faces severe poverty due to ongoing conflict and underdevelopment.
2. Burundi
A small, landlocked East African country with a fast-growing population and heavy reliance on agriculture.
GDP: $2.15 billion
Population: 13.46 million
3. Central African Republic (CAR)
Despite rich natural resources like gold, oil, and diamonds, political instability and violence keep CAR in deep poverty.
GDP: $3.03 billion
Population: 5.84 million
80% of the population lives below the poverty line.
4. Malawi
Known for its beautiful landscapes, Malawi suffers from climate vulnerability due to its dependence on rain-fed farming.
GDP: $10.78 billion
Population: 21.39 million
5. Mozambique
Though rich in resources, Mozambique battles terrorism, natural disasters, disease, and income inequality.
GDP: $24.55 billion
Population: 34.49 million
6. Somalia
Plagued by decades of civil war, piracy, and instability, Somalia remains one of the world’s most fragile states.
GDP: $13.89 billion
Population: 19.01 million
7. Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)
Despite its size and natural wealth (especially cobalt and copper), DRC faces massive poverty.
GDP: $79.24 billion
Population: 104.35 million
62% live on less than ₹180/day.
8. Liberia
With a past marked by civil war and disease outbreaks like Ebola, Liberia still struggles to recover.
GDP: $5.05 billion
Population: 5.49 million
9. Yemen
Yemen, located in the Middle East and an ally of Iran, is crippled by civil war and humanitarian crisis.
GDP: $16.22 billion
Population: ~34.4 million
Millions depend on aid for basic needs like food and medicine.
10. Madagascar
A former French colony and key strategic partner of India, Madagascar faces economic struggles despite its natural resources.
GDP: $18.1 billion
Population: 30.3 million
The economy depends on tourism and mining, but poverty remains high.
Key Takeaways:
Madagascar, an Indian ally, is 10th on the list.
Pakistan and Bangladesh are not in the top 10, despite economic pressures.
8 of the 10 countries are in Africa, highlighting the continent’s ongoing economic challenges.
The rankings serve as a stark reminder of global inequality and the urgent need for sustainable development and peace in many parts of the world.
