Midway through the 2020s, it’s worth reflecting on the economic trajectory of the world’s largest economies. Using inflation-adjusted data from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the following table outlines the top 10 countries by GDP growth between 2015 and 2025.
- China had a 74% GDP growth from $11.2 trillion in 2015 to $19.5 trillion in 2025
- India led with 77% GDP growth, moving from $2.4 trillion in 2015 to $4.3 trillion in 2025 and surpassed Japan in 2025.
- The US had a 28% increase in GDP, rising from $23.7 trillion in 2015 to $30.3 trillion in 2025
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All figures are presented in 2025 dollars, with 2015 values recalculated by reversing real GDP growth over the decade.
| Rank | Country Name | 2015 GDP | 2025 GDP | Inflation-Adjusted Growth |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | U.S. | $23.7T | $30.3T | 28% |
| 2 | China | $11.2T | $19.5T | 74% |
| 3 | Germany | $4.5T | $4.9T | 10% |
| 4 | Japan | $4.1T | $4.4T | 6% |
| 5 | India | $2.4T | $4.3T | 77% |
| 6 | UK | $3.3T | $3.7T | 14% |
| 7 | France | $2.9T | $3.3T | 12% |
| 8 | Italy | $2.2T | $2.5T | 11% |
| 9 | Canada | $2.0T | $2.3T | 17% |
| 10 | Brazil | $2.1T | $2.3T | 8% |
China: A decade of impressive gains, but below expectations
China posted an impressive 74% GDP growth over the decade, rising from $11.2 trillion in 2015 to $19.5 trillion in 2025. However, earlier projections that China would overtake the United States as the world’s largest economy have yet to materialise, largely due to the pandemic and challenges in its property sector.
“China’s growth remains formidable, but economic headwinds have slowed its momentum,” the report notes.
India: The Rising Star of the Global Economy
India led the chart with 77% GDP growth, moving from $2.4 trillion in 2015 to $4.3 trillion by 2025. Its rise into the top five global economies marks a shift in global power dynamics. The IMF projects that India will surpass Japan in 2025 and is on track to overtake Germany by 2027.
“India’s growth reflects its expanding digital economy, strong demographic dividend, and policy reforms,” analysts highlight.
United States: Still Leading, but Slower in Growth
The US retained its position as the world’s largest economy, with GDP rising from $23.7 trillion in 2015 to $30.3 trillion in 2025—a 28% increase. While slower compared to Asian economies, it remains a pillar of global economic stability.
Developed Economies Show Modest Growth
Countries such as the UK, France, Germany, and Japan saw relatively moderate growth over the decade, with figures ranging between 6% and 14%. Despite slower expansion, these economies continue to wield significant influence in trade and finance.
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Brazil: The Underperformer
Brazil recorded the lowest growth among the top ten, with only an 8% increase from $2.1 trillion to $2.3 trillion. The 2014 commodity crash pushed Brazil into recession, and although recovery efforts are ongoing, pandemic disruptions further delayed momentum.
“Brazil’s economy is gradually regaining its footing, but challenges remain in stabilising inflation and boosting industrial output,” the IMF observes.
