Nicaragua/Economy

Economy of Nicaragua

An overview of key economic indicators. Select a category for detailed trends, charts, and insights.

Explore Economic Domains

Growth & Output

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GDP (USD)
$17.8B(2023)
GDP PPP (USD)
$56.7B(2023)
GDP per Capita (USD)
$2,613(2023)
GDP Growth (inflation-adjusted)
4.6%(2023)
Inflation (CPI Annual %)
4.6%(2024)

Trade & Finance

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Exports (as share of GDP)
45.8%(2023)
Imports (as share of GDP)
59.1%(2023)
FDI Inflows (as share of GDP)
6.9%(2023)
Remittance Inflow (USD)
$4.7B(2023)
Tax Revenue (as share of GDP)
19.9%(2023)

Labor & Income

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Unemployment Rate
4.6%(2024)
Employment in Services
54.2%(2023)
Poverty Rate
24.9%(2016)
GINI Index
46.2(2014)
GNI per Capita (USD)
$2,350(2023)

Energy & Environment

Coming Soon
Energy Use per Capita
608 kg oil eq.(2022)
Renewable Energy Consumption (%)
50.4%(2021)

Economic Snapshot Overview

A summary of key economic indicators for Nicaragua

  • The economic architecture of Nicaragua is substantial, anchored by a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of approximately $17.83B
    2023
    . This places it as the 127th largest economy out of 191 countries measured, underscoring its significance on the world stage. On a per capita basis, GDP stands at $2.61K
    2023
    , while its GDP in Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) terms is estimated at $56.7B, reflecting the population's domestic purchasing power. The economy demonstrates solid growth, expanding at a rate of 4.6%
    2023
    , while managing moderate inflation, with a CPI of 4.6%
    2024
    .
  • On the global stage, the nation's trade and financial dynamics reveal a complex interplay of factors. The nation runs a trade deficit, with exports at 45.8% of GDP and imports at 59.1%
    2023
    . Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows are significant, constituting 6.90% of the economy
    2023
    . This performance positions the country 24th globally out of 186 nations, indicating its relative attractiveness to foreign capital. Additionally, personal remittances received amount to a substantial $4.66B annually
    2023
    , highlighting the economic importance of its diaspora. Fiscal capacity is moderate, with tax revenue at 19.9% of GDP
    2023
    .
  • The socio-economic landscape is characterized by a Gross National Income (GNI) per capita of $2,350
    2023
    . Globally, this ranks the nation 143rd out of 190 in terms of GNI per capita, providing a clear measure of its national wealth relative to others. The labor market is stable, with unemployment at 4.6%
    2024
    . The services sector is a primary driver of the labor market, accounting for 54.2% of total employment
    2023
    . Poverty remains a key issue, with 24.9% of the population living below the national poverty line
    2016
    . There is a moderate level of income inequality, with a Gini index of 46.2
    2014
    .
  • On the environment and energy front, energy consumption per capita is 608.246 kg of oil equivalent
    2022
    . The country is a leader in clean energy, with renewable sources making up 50.4% of total final energy consumption
    2021
    . Its commitment to clean energy places it 144th among 190 countries for its share of renewable energy consumption.

Key Economic Insights

Macroeconomic Health

Maintaining a balance between growth, inflation, and employment is the central challenge for economic policymakers.

Trade & Investment Profile

A highly open, export-oriented economy that is deeply integrated into global markets and attractive to foreign capital.

Social Equity & Distribution

Distributing the benefits of economic growth equitably is crucial for social cohesion and long-term stability.

Energy & Sustainability

A strong commitment to renewable energy positions the country as a leader in the green transition, potentially creating new economic advantages.

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.