Yemen/Economy

Economy of Yemen

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)
$21.6B(2018)
GDP PPP (USD)
$92.8B(2013)
GDP per Capita (USD)
$477(2023)
GDP Growth (inflation-adjusted)
0.8%(2018)
Inflation (CPI Annual %)
8.1%(2014)

Trade & Finance

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Exports (as share of GDP)
8.8%(2018)
Imports (as share of GDP)
50.1%(2018)
FDI Inflows (as share of GDP)
-1.7%(2019)
Remittance Inflow (USD)
$3.8B(2023)

Labor & Income

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Unemployment Rate
17.1%(2024)
Employment in Services
60.2%(2023)
Poverty Rate
48.6%(2014)
GINI Index
36.7(2014)
GNI per Capita (USD)
$740(2018)

Energy & Environment

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Energy Use per Capita
69 kg oil eq.(2022)
Renewable Energy Consumption (%)
3.7%(2021)

Economic Snapshot Overview

A summary of key economic indicators for Yemen

  • The economic architecture of Yemen is substantial, anchored by a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of approximately $21.61B
    2018
    . This places it as the 116th largest economy out of 191 countries measured, underscoring its significance on the world stage. On a per capita basis, GDP stands at $477.41
    2023
    , while its GDP in Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) terms is estimated at $92.76B, reflecting the population's domestic purchasing power. The economy is seeing modest growth of 0.8%
    2018
    , while managing moderate inflation, with a CPI of 8.1%
    2014
    .
  • 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 8.8% of GDP and imports at 50.1%
    2018
    . Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows are significant, constituting -1.69% of the economy
    2019
    . This performance positions the country 172nd globally out of 186 nations, indicating its relative attractiveness to foreign capital. Additionally, personal remittances received amount to a substantial $3.77B annually
    2023
    , highlighting the economic importance of its diaspora.
  • The socio-economic landscape is characterized by a Gross National Income (GNI) per capita of $740
    2018
    . Globally, this ranks the nation 177th 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 17.1%
    2024
    . The services sector is a primary driver of the labor market, accounting for 60.2% of total employment
    2023
    . Poverty remains a key issue, with 48.6% of the population living below the national poverty line
    2014
    . There is a moderate level of income inequality, with a Gini index of 36.7
    2014
    .
  • On the environment and energy front, energy consumption per capita is 68.95 kg of oil equivalent
    2022
    . The energy mix is still heavily reliant on traditional sources, with renewables contributing 3.7%
    2021
    . Its commitment to clean energy places it 31st 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 economy is primarily driven by domestic demand, with limited exposure to global trade fluctuations but also fewer opportunities for export-led growth.

Social Equity & Distribution

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

Energy & Sustainability

Heavy reliance on fossil fuels creates significant long-term risks related to climate change, price volatility, and 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.