Global AveragesGlobal Averages

    Global Average Debt-to-GDP Ratio

    Last updated: January 31, 2026

    92%

    %

    The global average government debt-to-GDP ratio is approximately 92%. Japan leads at over 260%, while many developing nations remain below 50%. Debt levels surged during COVID-19 as governments spent heavily on pandemic response.

    Share

    Historical Trend

    Source: IMF

    Global Average Debt-to-GDP Ratio by Country

    Country Value (%) ↓Source
    Japan263IMF
    United States123IMF
    France112IMF
    Canada107IMF
    United Kingdom101IMF
    Brazil88IMF
    India83IMF
    China83IMF
    Pakistan75IMF
    Germany66IMF
    South Korea54IMF
    Australia52IMF
    Nigeria38IMF
    United Arab Emirates30IMF
    Saudi Arabia26IMF
    Russia22IMF

    Why This Average Exists

    Debt-to-GDP ratios indicate fiscal sustainability and a government's ability to service its obligations without triggering a debt crisis.

    Factors That Affect Global Average Debt-to-GDP Ratio

    • Government spending
    • Tax revenue
    • Economic growth
    • Interest rates
    • Crisis spending
    • Monetary policy

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Methodology & Data Sources

    The data presented on this page is compiled from publicly available datasets published by international organizations including the World Bank, World Health Organization (WHO), International Labour Organization (ILO), United Nations, NASA, and national statistical agencies.

    Global averages are calculated using population-weighted or arithmetic means depending on the metric. Country-level data reflects the most recent available figures, typically from 2024–2024. Where gaps exist, the latest available data point is used.

    All figures are subject to revision as source organizations update their datasets. For the most authoritative data, we encourage consulting the original sources linked in the table above.

    Further Reading