South Sudan's economy relies heavily on oil, contributing nearly 90% of government revenue and exports. Political instability and conflict disrupt growth, limiting infrastructure and investment. Subsistence agriculture, including sorghum, maize, and livestock, sustains much of the population. The informal sector dominates due to minimal industrialization. High inflation, currency depreciation, and import reliance exacerbate poverty. Efforts to diversify into agriculture and mining face challenges from insecurity and governance issues. Despite vast arable land and natural resources, economic development lags, with humanitarian aid playing a critical role. South Sudan's economic potential remains untapped, hindered by ongoing violence and weak institutional frameworks.
World Bank Data. 2000-2024. Last updated Oct 2025.
Refer to the latest year-over-year South Sudan GDP statistics.