South Africa GDP: $1.293 trillion

World Economics estimates South Africa's 2024 GDP at $1.293 trillion in PPP terms (Purchasing Power Parity) and an initial estimate of $1.313 trillion for 2025. This figure is 48% higher than the official estimate published by the World Bank.

World Economics' methodology incorporates crucial factors often overlooked in official estimates, such as:

• The size of the informal economy: It is estimated that 29% of South Africa's economic activity occurs outside the formal sector.
• Outdated GDP base year data: Many countries use outdated base years for their GDP calculations, leading to an underestimation of economic growth. South Africa uses a 8 year old GDP base year.

By adjusting for these factors where required, World Economics provides a more accurate picture of South Africa's true economic size and potential.

For reference, offical data reported South Africa's GDP as $381 billion in 2015 constant prices and $381 billion in current prices for 2023.

Data source: World Economics Research, London