Afghanistan flag

Afghanistan

Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Capital

Kabul

Region

Asia

Population

43,844,000

Area (km²)

652,230

💡Quick Summary

Afghanistan, a landlocked nation in Central Asia with an area of 652,230 km², is home to a population of about 43.8 million people and features Kabul as its bustling capital. Known for its rugged mountainous terrain and diverse ethnic groups, the country has a complex history shaped by ancient trade routes like the Silk Road. While GDP data is currently unavailable, Afghanistan's economy relies heavily on agriculture, mining, and international aid amidst ongoing political challenges.

Key Insights

Extreme Poverty Indicated by GDP Per Capita

Afghanistan's GDP per capita is strikingly low at $413.76, placing it among the poorest nations globally. This figure highlights the severe economic challenges and humanitarian crisis facing the population, despite a positive GDP growth rate of 2.267%.

Deflationary Environment Amidst Economic Instability

The country is experiencing significant deflation, with an inflation rate of -4.645%. While deflation can temporarily lower prices, in Afghanistan's context, it often signals a severe lack of consumer demand, collapsing asset values, and deep economic contraction following political upheaval, which is unusual for a developing nation.

High Fertility Rate Driving Rapid Population Growth

Afghanistan maintains a very high fertility rate of 4.84 births per woman, which is a key driver of its large and rapidly growing population. This demographic pressure puts immense strain on the limited economic resources and infrastructure, especially given the low life expectancy of 66.04 years.

Significant Rural Dominance and Low Urbanization

Only about a quarter of the population (25.473%) resides in urban areas, indicating that Afghanistan remains predominantly rural. This low urbanization rate suggests challenges in infrastructure development, centralized services, and economic modernization compared to regional averages.

Economic Indicators
Latest economic data from World Bank

GDP (Current US$)

$17.15B

Year: 2023

GDP Per Capita

$413.76

GDP Growth (%)

2.27%

Inflation (%)

-4.65%

Unemployment (%)

13.99%

Debt to GDP (%)

N/A%

Source: World Bank • Last updated: 1/23/2026

Historical Trends & Data Visualizations

GDP Growth Rate
Annual percentage change in GDP over time
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023-21.00%-14.00%-7.00%0.00%7.00%
  • GDP Growth (%)
Population Growth
Total population over time
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023015,000,00030,000,00045,000,00060,000,000
  • Population
Life Expectancy
Average life expectancy at birth (years)
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230.0years20.0years40.0years60.0years80.0years
  • Life Expectancy (years)
Renewable Energy Consumption
Percentage of total energy from renewable sources
2014201520162017201820192020202120220.0%6.0%12.0%18.0%24.0%
  • Renewable Energy (%)
GDP Per Capita
Economic output per person (current US$)
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023$0$200$400$600$800
  • GDP Per Capita ($)

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