Why are some countries drowning in debt compared to their economy? I’m diving into the IMF’s 2025 data on debt to GDP ratio—Japan’s at 252%, Sudan’s at 239%. This matters because it shows who’s borrowing more than they can produce. If you’re curious about global finance or economic stability, this is for you. I’ll unpack the top 25 countries, why their debt’s so high, and what it means for the world. No fluff, just the truth. Let’s get started.
Why Debt to GDP Ratio Matters
Debt to GDP ratio measures how much a country owes compared to its economic output. High ratios signal trouble paying back loans. People search “debt to GDP ratio by country” a ton, so this is relevant.
Top Countries by Debt to GDP Ratio in 2025
Here’s the IMF’s 2025 top 10:
- Japan: 252%
- Sudan: 239%
- Singapore: 163%
- Greece: 160%
- Italy: 143%
- United States: 127%
- Bhutan: 123%
- Bahrain: 119%
- Laos: 118%
- Maldives: 112%
Japan’s way out front, but Sudan’s not far behind. Let’s break down the leaders.
Japan: Debt Mountain
252%. Japan’s been borrowing big for decades to kickstart growth. Aging population and slow economy keep piling it on.
Sudan: Crisis Zone
239%. War and economic collapse drive Sudan’s borrowing. They’re stuck in a debt trap.
Singapore: High but Stable
163%. Singapore’s debt is mostly internal, so it’s less risky. Their economy’s strong enough to handle it.
What’s Driving High Debt to GDP Ratios?
It’s not random. Here’s what’s going on:
- Crises: Sudan’s wars force heavy borrowing.
- Policy: Japan’s stimulus plans add debt yearly.
- Economy Size: USA’s 127% is huge in dollars but manageable.
- Investments: Singapore borrows for growth projects.
It’s a mix of survival, strategy, and sometimes bad choices.
Why You Should Care About Debt to GDP Ratio
Imagine living in Japan—252% debt means higher taxes or cuts eventually. Or Sudan, where 239% cripples growth. High debt to GDP ratio hits economies, jobs, and your wallet. If you care about global markets, this is your wake-up call.
Where I Got This Data
IMF’s 2025 World Economic Outlook, cross-checked with World Bank. It’s general government debt as a percentage of GDP. Legit numbers, no guesses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What’s debt to GDP ratio?
How much a country owes compared to its economic output.
Why’s Japan so high?
252% comes from decades of borrowing to boost growth.
Is Sudan’s debt risky?
239% is brutal—war and collapse make repayment tough.
How’s the data sourced?
IMF and World Bank—gold-standard stats.
What’s next for debt levels?
More borrowing unless economies grow fast.
Wrapping Up Debt to GDP Ratio in 2025
Japan’s at 252%, Sudan 239%, Singapore 163%. Debt to GDP ratio shows who’s borrowing big and why—crises, policies, or growth bets. Stay sharp on this—it’s the pulse of global finance. Check our takes on economic trends or fiscal policy for more. Keep tracking debt to GDP ratio.
