The economic architecture of Rwanda is substantial, anchored by a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of approximately $14.1B
2023
. This places it as the 140th largest economy out of 192 countries measured, underscoring its significance on the world stage. On a per capita basis, GDP stands at $1.01K
2023
, while its GDP adjusted for Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) is estimated at $47.39B, offering a clearer picture of the population's domestic purchasing power. The economy is experiencing a period of vigorous expansion, with a high growth rate of 8.2%
2023
, accompanied by a stable price environment, with inflation (CPI) contained at 1.8%.
2024
On the global stage, Rwanda's trade and financial dynamics reveal a complex interplay of international and domestic factors. The nation's economic activity is heavily reliant on foreign goods, running a considerable trade deficit with imports at 40.6% of GDP and exports at 25.4%
2023
. The investment climate attracts significant Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), with inflows constituting 3.26% of the economy
2023
. This performance positions the country 61st globally out of 187 nations, confirming its status as a competitive destination for foreign capital. Furthermore, personal remittances from its diaspora are a vital component of the economy, amounting to a substantial $518.06M annually
2023
. The government operates under fiscal constraints, with a limited tax base that generates revenue equivalent to only 13.7% of GDP.
2023
The socio-economic landscape is characterized by a Gross National Income (GNI) per capita of $990
2023
, ranking the nation 170th out of 191. This figure provides a comprehensive measure of the average income per person, reflecting the nation's overall economic well-being. The country confronts significant labor market challenges, evidenced by a high unemployment rate of 12.0%.
2024
A key feature of the workforce is its concentration in the services sector, which accounts for 30.7% of total employment
2023
. Despite its economic standing, poverty remains a salient issue, with 38.2% of the population living below the national poverty line
2016
. The nation exhibits a moderate degree of income inequality, with a Gini index of 43.7.
2016
In the environmental and energy sectors, the nation's policies and outcomes reflect its developmental priorities. Energy consumption per capita stands at 372.991 kg of oil equivalent
2022
, a metric that often correlates with industrial activity and living standards. The country is at the forefront of the global green transition, with renewable sources constituting a remarkable 79.9% of total final energy consumption
2022
. This commitment places it 175th among 191 countries, highlighting its relative progress in decarbonization. Total greenhouse gas emissions were last recorded at 7.49K tonnes of CO2 equivalent
2023
, a key factor in its national climate strategy and international obligations.

Key Economic Insights

Macroeconomic Health

Balancing growth, inflation, and employment remains the core challenge for economic stewardship.

Trade & Investment Profile

The orientation towards global trade and foreign investment is a defining feature of the economic landscape.

Social Equity & Distribution

Ensuring equitable distribution of economic gains is fundamental for long-term social and political stability.

Energy & Sustainability

A global leader in the green transition, the country leverages its strong commitment to renewable energy as a key economic and diplomatic advantage.

More About This Country

Neighbors & Regional Peers

Note: The information on this page has been compiled from authoritative sources. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, please note that some figures may not be current or entirely precise.