While the U.S., China, and Europe remain dominant economic giants, a new wave of emerging nations is powering growth with an eye on sustainability and environmental stewardship. Fueled by green investments, renewable energy adoption, and resilient infrastructure, these rising economies are rethinking development models.
1. South Sudan
Rebounding from a sharp downturn due to conflict, the economy surges as oil production and infrastructure recovery take off.
- 2024 vs 2025: –26.4% → +27.2% GDP growth
- Key Sectors: Oil exports, pipeline repair, reconstruction
2. Guyana
Once among the world’s poorest, now booming on newfound offshore oil revenues and sweeping infrastructure investment.
- 2024 vs 2025: ~34% growth projection (following a massive 2024 surge)
- Key Sectors: Oil & gas, infrastructure, port and services build-up
3. Libya
Emerging from prolonged unrest, Libya benefits from resumed oil output and international reconstruction aid.
- 2024 vs 2025: From near-stagnation to +13.7% growth
- Key Sectors: Oil, infrastructure, foreign investment
4. Senegal
Accelerating fast as new oil/gas projects and transport infrastructure reshape West Africa’s economy.
- 2024 vs 2025: ~6% → +9.3% growth
- Key Sectors: Hydrocarbons, transport, agri-services
5. Palau
Tourism-dependent and still healing from the pandemic, Palau rebounds with construction and international arrivals.
- 2024 vs 2025: Modest recovery → +8.5% growth
- Key Sectors: Tourism, construction, travel services
6. Sudan
Post-conflict recovery under way, with reconstruction and renewed oil activity fueling optimism.
- 2024 vs 2025: Sharp contraction → +8.3% growth
- Key Sectors: Infrastructure, oil, economic reforms
7. Uganda
Resource-rich and youthful, this nation sees gains from coffee, energy, and improved trade climate.
- 2024 vs 2025: ~5.9% → +7.5% growth
- Key Sectors: Agricultural exports, energy investment, services
8. Niger
A turnaround story, powered by oil exports via new pipeline and boosted agriculture.
- 2024 vs 2025: ~2.4% → +7.3% growth
- Key Sectors: Oil, uranium, farming
9. Macao SAR
Gaming and tourism regain steam as travel restrictions lift.
- 2024 vs 2025: Low post-COVID baseline → +7.3% growth
- Key Sectors: Casinos, hospitality, service exports
10. Bhutan
Sustainably growing on hydropower revenues and eco-tourism momentum.
- 2024 vs 2025: Moderate growth → +7.2% growth
- Key Sectors: Hydropower, green tourism
11. Mongolia
Mineral exports and infrastructure gains spur a renewed ascent.
- 2024 vs 2025: Lower growth → +7.0% growth
- Key Sectors: Mining, metals, infrastructure
12. Zambia
After drought setbacks, copper and agriculture lead a strong rebound.
- 2024 vs 2025: ~2.3% → +6.6% growth
- Key Sectors: Mining (copper), farming, investment
13. Benin
Maintaining upward momentum through trade and local production.
- 2024 vs 2025: ~6.4% → +6.5% growth
- Key Sectors: Agriculture, trade, manufacturing
14. Ethiopia
Structural reforms and international aid bolster steady expansion despite lingering risks.
- 2024 vs 2025: ~6.1% → +6.5% growth
- Key Sectors: Infrastructure, agriculture, public reform
15. Rwanda
Stable and strategically investing, Rwanda benefits from manufacturing, exports, and infrastructure.
- 2024 vs 2025: ~7.0% → +6.5% growth (slight moderation)
- Key Sectors: Manufacturing, exports, infrastructure
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