South Sudan/Economy

Economy of South Sudan

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)
$12.0B(2015)
GDP PPP (USD)
$12.8B(2015)
GDP per Capita (USD)
$1,080(2015)
GDP Growth (inflation-adjusted)
-10.8%(2015)
Inflation (CPI Annual %)
91.4%(2024)

Trade & Finance

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Exports (as share of GDP)
36.7%(2015)
Imports (as share of GDP)
28.9%(2015)
FDI Inflows (as share of GDP)
0%(2015)
Remittance Inflow (USD)
$1.2B(2023)

Labor & Income

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Unemployment Rate
12.5%(2023)
Employment in Services
27%(2023)
Poverty Rate
82.3%(2016)
GINI Index
44(2016)
GNI per Capita (USD)
$1,050(2015)

Energy & Environment

Coming Soon
Energy Use per Capita
69 kg oil eq.(2022)
Renewable Energy Consumption (%)
32.4%(2021)

Economic Snapshot Overview

A summary of key economic indicators for South Sudan

  • The economic architecture of South Sudan is substantial, anchored by a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of approximately $12B
    2015
    . This places it as the 146th largest economy out of 191 countries measured, underscoring its significance on the world stage. On a per capita basis, GDP stands at $1.08K
    2015
    , while its GDP in Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) terms is estimated at $12.83B, reflecting the population's domestic purchasing power. The economy is facing a contraction, with a negative growth rate of -10.8%
    2015
    , but this is challenged by high inflation, with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) at 91.4%
    2024
    .
  • On the global stage, the nation's trade and financial dynamics reveal a complex interplay of factors. The country maintains a strong trade surplus, with exports representing 36.7% of GDP and imports 28.9%
    2015
    . Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows are significant, constituting 0.00% of the economy
    2015
    . This performance positions the country 163rd globally out of 186 nations, indicating its relative attractiveness to foreign capital. Additionally, personal remittances received amount to a substantial $1.18B annually
    2023
    , highlighting the economic importance of its diaspora.
  • The socio-economic landscape is characterized by a Gross National Income (GNI) per capita of $1,050
    2015
    . Globally, this ranks the nation 167th out of 190 in terms of GNI per capita, providing a clear measure of its national wealth relative to others. The country faces significant labor market challenges, with an unemployment rate of 12.5%
    2023
    . The services sector is a primary driver of the labor market, accounting for 27.0% of total employment
    2023
    . Poverty remains a key issue, with 82.3% of the population living below the national poverty line
    2016
    . There is a moderate level of income inequality, with a Gini index of 44.0
    2016
    .
  • On the environment and energy front, energy consumption per capita is 69.043 kg of oil equivalent
    2022
    . The country is a leader in clean energy, with renewable sources making up 32.4% of total final energy consumption
    2021
    . Its commitment to clean energy places it 115th among 190 countries for its share of renewable energy consumption.

Key Economic Insights

Macroeconomic Health

Stagnant growth combined with high unemployment points to significant structural issues that may require bold policy interventions.

Trade & Investment Profile

The degree of openness to trade and foreign investment is a major determinant of economic structure and resilience.

Social Equity & Distribution

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

Energy & Sustainability

Transitioning to a sustainable energy model is critical for mitigating climate risk and ensuring long-term energy security.

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.