Turkmenistan's economy relies on natural gas exports, with vast reserves funding grandiose projects. Cotton and wheat agriculture use extensive irrigation. Isolationist policies limit diversification. Ashgabat's marble architecture symbolizes wealth concentration. Energy deals with China dominate trade. Challenges include opacity and human rights concerns. Efforts to develop tourism and textiles emerge. Desert climate hinders farming. Turkmenistan's Caspian position aids pipelines. Despite resource wealth, poverty persists amid state control.
World Bank Data. 2000-2024. Last updated Oct 2025. Refer to the latest year-over-year Turkmenistan GDP statistics.