List of countries by public debt

The list of countries by public debt ratio gives an overview of the public debt of almost all countries in the world in relation to gross domestic product (GDP).

Countries by public debt ratio

If you want to compare the debt ratio of different countries, must take into account that the economies are different in size. Therefore, the total debt is related to the gross domestic product ( GDP). Example: In 2010, Japan's public debt was 220 percent of GDP. This means that the entire economy would have to operate 2.20 years and completely give the proceeds to the creditors of the Japanese State in order to pay off the national debt (although during this time would further the interest is charged ).

The table gives the government debt (gross, without counterclaim of state claims to third parties ) relative to GDP again. The figures are without obligations for public sector pensions, health insurance, health care and pensions, for which there is no funding. Including the covert government debt, the debt ratio would rise by a multiple. All data are based on calculations of the International Monetary Fund from October 2012. The overview contains 173 of the 193 recognized by the United Nations, as well as details for Hong Kong and Taiwan.

There are - few - countries with no national debt, including Liechtenstein.