Government debt-to-GDP ratios have risen sharply in developed economies following the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. Japan's debt exceeds 250% of GDP, while Germany has maintained relative fiscal discipline. This comparison examines debt trajectories alongside GDP growth to understand whether high debt is sustainable — or a drag on growth.
Key Data Points
France, United States, Germany, Italy, Japan, United Kingdom -- GDP per capita ($), GDP growth (%), Gov debt (% GDP)
France
$48,981.97
United States
$70,249
Germany
$59,925.32
Italy
$43,161.2
Japan
$34,713.25
United Kingdom
$56,660.87
France
0.7 % annual
United States
0.5 % annual
Germany
0.2 % annual
Italy
0.5 % annual
Japan
1.1 % annual
United Kingdom
1.3 % annual
France
116.5%
United States
30,322.8%
Germany
64.4%
Italy
136.8%
Japan
229.6%
United Kingdom
103.4%