Sudan topped the list of countries with the highest public debt, reaching 334.4% of GDP
Ukraine ranked 13th in the world for public debt, which will reach 111.8% of GDP in 2026. These data were provided by the International Monetary Fund in its latest World Economic Outlook forecast. This was reported by Minfin citing International Monetary Fund, according to the portal PromPolitInform.
According to the analysis of the World Economic Outlook report, Ukraine has entered the group of countries with the highest debt-to-GDP ratios. The projected figure of over 111% of GDP reflects a complex financial situation driven by significant defense spending and critical infrastructure recovery, as well as a persistent budget deficit.
Leadership in the global debt ranking
Sudan took the top spot in this indicator, with its public debt reaching 334.4% of GDP due to prolonged military conflict. Japan ranked second with 199.4%, and Singapore held the third position with 166.4%. Bahrain and Italy also entered the top five most indebted nations.
Among developed economies, the United States holds the eighth position with a debt burden at 126.8% of GDP. Meanwhile, the global debt-to-GDP ratio is expected to reach 94.6% in 2026, according to expert estimates.
Financial stability and debt risks
Analysts emphasize that high debt levels are not always an indicator of default or economic collapse. The example of Singapore demonstrates that significant public borrowing can be an effective tool for financing internal investments and strengthening the financial system, provided the country maintains stable conditions for debt servicing.
However, for countries currently at war or with limited access to capital markets, debt burdens represent a significant challenge. Assessing the real threat depends not only on the total amount of debt but also on the cost of servicing it, maturity dates, and the ability of the national economy to grow in future periods.
Photo: Minfin
