Nigeria among the top 4 as IMF projects GDP growth for 2025
India is projected to be the fastest-growing major economy in the world in 2025, with an impressive GDP growth forecast of 6.2%, according to the latest data from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
The projection places India far ahead of other major economies, reinforcing its status as a global growth engine.
The graphic, presented by Trade Brains and based on IMF’s projections, visually compares the expected GDP growth rates of key global economies for 2025.
It highlights the economic momentum across regions, with several emerging markets outpacing developed nations.
Top 5 Fastest Growing Economies in 2025 (IMF Projections)
1. India – 6.2%
2. China – 4.0%
3. Saudi Arabia – 3.0%
4. Nigeria – 3.0%
5. Spain – 2.5%
India’s growth is driven by strong domestic demand, policy reforms, and rapid technological advancements. Economists also credit the expansion of the services and manufacturing sectors for the surge.
China follows with a projected growth rate of 4.0%, maintaining its position as a global economic heavyweight. Saudi Arabia and Nigeria, both energy-rich nations, are tied at 3.0%, reflecting the ongoing recovery in oil markets and broader economic reforms. Spain rounds out the top five with 2.5%, signaling moderate recovery within the Eurozone.
Other Notable Economies
• Brazil: 2.0%
• United States: 1.8%
• Russia: 1.5%
• Canada: 1.4%
• United Kingdom: 1.1%
• South Africa: 1.0%
• Japan: 0.6%
Advanced economies like the U.S., Canada, and Japan show relatively modest growth. Japan, in particular, trails at the bottom with a projected GDP growth of only 0.6%, largely attributed to demographic challenges and slow domestic consumption.
The IMF has projected global growth to hover around 3.3% in both 2025 and 2026, slightly below pre-pandemic averages. Emerging markets continue to drive much of this growth, while developed economies face headwinds from inflation, tighter monetary policy, and aging populations.
Sub-Saharan Africa also remains a promising region, with Nigeria as a standout performer among its peers.
Meanwhile, developed nations are being urged to implement structural reforms and foster innovation to sustain growth.
The IMF’s 2025 GDP growth projections underline a shifting global economic landscape where emerging economies like India and Nigeria are taking the lead.
As the world adapts to post-pandemic realities and geopolitical shifts, these growth trends could reshape the future balance of global economic power.
