The scale of China’s economic power
This fascinating visualization highlights China’s extraordinary economic strength in comparison with the combined economies of 30 other Asian countries. It provides a striking perspective on the vast scale of China’s economic dominance, often difficult to completely understand.
Available as a free download on iOS and Android, the Voronoi app visualization provides access to a wealth of charts powered by data from renowned institutions equivalent to the United Nations and the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Comparing China’s economy with those of East, Southeast, South and Central Asia, collectively often called the “Rest of Asia,” sheds light on key regional disparities.
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Exclusions: This evaluation excluded West Asia, Middle Eastern countries and Russia – a transcontinental country encompassing each Europe and Asia. Additionally, no data was available for North Korea.
China versus the remaining of Asia: key economic indicators
In 2024, China’s economy reached a staggering $18.27 trillion, surpassing the combined GDP of 30 other Asian countries, which was roughly $16.5 trillion. To higher understand this discrepancy, the table below provides an in depth breakdown:
| Country | GDP 2024 (in USD trillion) | Population |
|---|---|---|
| 🇨🇳 China | $18.27 | 1,419,321,000 |
| 🇯🇵 Japan | $4.07 | 123,753,000 |
| 🇮🇳 India | $3.89 | 1,450,936,000 |
| 🇰🇷South Korea | $1.87 | 51,718,000 |
| 🇮🇩 Indonesia | $1.40 | 283,488,000 |
| 🇹🇼 Taiwan | $0.775 | 23,214,000 |
| 🇸🇬 Singapore | $0.531 | 5,832,387 |
| 🇹🇠Thailand | $0.529 | 71,668,000 |
| 🇻🇳 Vietnam | $0.468 | 100,988,000 |
| 🇧🇩 Bangladesh | $0.451 | 173,562,000 |
| 🇵🇠Philippines | $0.440 | 115,844,000 |
Disparities in population and productivity
China’s population of about 1.4 billion is dwarfed by the combined population of 30 other Asian countries, which total greater than 2.9 billion. However, the disparities in GDP per capita are clear:
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China’s GDP per capita: $12,870
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The remainder of Asia’s GDP per capita: $5,583
This productivity gap highlights China’s economic efficiency and industrial strength in comparison with other countries within the region.
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China’s global influence and economic slowdown
A catalyst for global growth
Since 2010, China’s economy has grown by about $1 trillion a yr, an amount equal to the complete economy of Saudi Arabia. From 2012 to 2021, China contributed almost 39% of world economic growth, surpassing the combined contribution of the G7 countries. China’s dominance in manufacturing and industrial sectors stays unparalleled, shaping global supply chains and driving economic development in Asia, Africa and beyond.
The ripple effects of the slowdown
The recent economic slowdown in China following the pandemic has caused concern around the globe. The decline in demand in China is affecting many export-dependent countries, especially in Asia and Africa. The following dynamics highlight the far-reaching consequences:
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Impact on exports: Decreased demand from China is affecting industries in countries which might be heavily depending on exports to the Chinese market.
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International trade tensions: As Chinese firms turn to international markets, tensions with the US and the EU have increased. Allegations of unfair trade practices and possible tariff increases could further disrupt global economic stability.
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Consumer costs: Tariff increases would result in higher consumer costs, illustrating the interconnectedness of world economies.
What the long run holds
China’s economy stays the premise of world economic stability. However, slowing growth highlights the necessity for other Asian economies to diversify and be resilient. Countries equivalent to India, Indonesia and Vietnam, with growing middle classes and expanding technology industries, are poised to play a greater role within the regional economy.
Source: Visual capitalist
