Some developing economies benefited from rebounds in energy production, strong remittances and post-crisis recoveries. Others were dragged down by violence, political instability and structural weaknesses. 

Global South World reviewed the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) 2025 projections — a closely watched outlook produced by the Washington-based lender that monitors economic developments worldwide — to identify the year’s strongest and weakest performers.

BIGGEST WINNERS

Republic of South Sudan (24.3%)

South Sudan’s surge reflects a rebound in oil production following earlier pipeline disruptions and conflict-related shutdowns, amplified by a low base. The IMF cautioned that the recovery remains fragile and almost entirely dependent on crude exports, leaving the economy highly exposed to price and security shocks.

Libya (15.6%)

Libya’s growth was driven by higher crude output after repeated blockades eased, boosting exports and government spending. In May, the North African country recorded a 12-year high in oil production, reaching 1.23 million barrels per day, underscoring the economy’s continued reliance on hydrocarbons.

Guyana (10.3%)

Guyana remained one of the world’s fastest-growing economies as new offshore oil projects came online, lifting exports and funding public investment. This followed a 43.4% expansion in 2024, when oil production reached 225 million barrels. Spillovers from the energy sector continued to fuel construction, manufacturing and agriculture, while non-oil GDP rose 13.1%, driven largely by government-led capital spending.

Kyrgyz Republic (8.0%)

Growth continued to be supported by the services sector, which accounts for nearly half of GDP. In 2025, services, goods production and rising tax revenues emerged as the economy’s main bright spots, helping offset external pressures.

Tajikistan (7.5%)

Tajikistan’s expansion was underpinned by growth in services and industry, optimism over energy investments, strong consumer demand and private-sector activity. Real GDP rose 8.2% in the first three quarters of 2025, while inflation remained contained at 2.8% year on year in September.

BIGGEST LOSERS

Haiti (-3.1%)

Haiti’s economy continued to contract as gang violence, political paralysis and collapsing institutions disrupted trade, investment and basic services. It remains one of the poorest countries in the Western Hemisphere, with nearly two-thirds of the population living below the poverty line.

Myanmar (-2.7%)

Myanmar remained in recession amid ongoing civil conflict, sanctions and capital flight following the 2021 military coup. The economy also grappled with the aftermath of a March earthquake that triggered large reconstruction needs. Inflation is expected to stay above 20% in the near term, further straining household budgets.

Equatorial Guinea (-1.6%)

The contraction reflected heightened global uncertainty and declining hydrocarbon production. Despite falling output, poverty is projected to ease modestly — from 57.0% in 2024 to 55.8% by 2027 — supported by expansion in labour-intensive agriculture and services.

Yemen (-1.5%)

Yemen’s economy remained under pressure from protracted conflict and disrupted oil exports. In areas controlled by the internationally recognised government, inflation continued to erode purchasing power. In Houthi-controlled regions, airstrikes on key ports and persistent liquidity shortages further constrained imports and access to essential goods.

Botswana (-0.9%)

Botswana slipped into contraction as weaker global diamond demand weighed on exports and fiscal revenues, compounded by drought pressures. Rising debt risks prompted the government to introduce austerity measures, tightening conditions further.

Qatar may halt LNG exports to the EU over the new Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), which mandates large firms to address environmental and human rights issues in their supply chains or face fines. The law, applying to EU and non-EU firms with over €450M turnover, phases in through 2029. Qatar, heavily reliant on fossil fuel exports and criticised for labour abuses, sees the rules as a threat. Al-Kaabi said without changes, Doha would seek other markets, questioning the directive’s climate goals and rejecting net-zero targets. As one of the world’s top LNG exporters, Qatar could pivot to markets like Pakistan and Syria, while the EU may need to increase U.S. LNG imports or reconsider nuclear power.

Why workplace safety matters

As Qatar advances its National Vision 2030, industries such as construction, oil & gas, logistics, healthcare, and manufacturing face growing pressure from regulators, employees, and global partners to improve workplace safety. ISO 45001, the international standard for Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems, provides a structured approach to identifying hazards, managing risks, and ensuring continuous improvement—offering not only compliance but also a competitive edge. Rapid development in areas like Lusail, The Pearl, and Ras Laffan has heightened occupational risks, making ISO 45001’s globally recognised framework critical. Released in 2018, the standard aligns with ISO 9001 and ISO 14001, enabling integration of quality, environmental, and safety management systems.

Qatar backs Syria’s economic revival

Qatar’s UCC Holding is spearheading a $4 billion foreign-investment deal with four international partners to transform Damascus International Airport into a regional hub. The project, under a Build–Operate–Transfer model, will expand capacity to 31 million passengers across five phases, introduce 32 modern gates, and add world-class facilities. Seen as a key step in Syria’s reconstruction, it aims to boost connectivity, trade, and tourism while meeting ICAO and IATA standards.

Storms, cancellations, and tourism slump disrupt air travel in Qatar, other countries

In 2025, the US, Canada, UK, Germany, Australia, and Qatar face a major travel shake-up as storms, airline cancellations, and declining tourism disrupt the global air industry. Violent weather is grounding flights in US hubs like Dallas and New York, while Canada battles wildfire smoke and delays in Ontario and British Columbia. In the UK and Germany, summer storms are driving delays and reduced bookings, straining airports and tour operators alike.

Qatar is steadily enhancing its legislative framework

Minister of Justice and Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs H E Ibrahim bin Ali bin Issa Al Hassan Al Mohannadi has said Qatar is strengthening its legislative framework to support sustainable development, uphold the rule of law, and promote transparency. Over the past year, Cabinet decisions have advanced legislative modernisation, ensured justice, and built strong institutions. According to the Council of Ministers Secretariat General, initiatives have focused on empowering national talent, accelerating digital transformation, engaging youth, and advancing food security and sustainable urban planning—all aimed at achieving sustainable development within a modern legislative and executive framework.