Laos vs China
Comprehensive comparison of economic, demographic and social indicators
Key Indicators
| Indicator | Laos | China | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| GDP (nominal) | $16.50B | $18.74T | 2024 |
| GDP per capita | $2,124 | $13,303 | 2024 |
| Population | 7.8M | 1.41B | 2024 |
| GDP growth rate | 4.13% | 4.98% | 2024 |
| Inflation rate | 23.13% | 0.22% | 2024 |
| Unemployment rate | 1.19% | 4.62% | 2025 |
| Life expectancy | 69.0 years | 78.0 years | 2023 |
| Surface area (sq. km) | 236,800 km2 | 9,562,910 km2 | 2023 |
Laos vs China: Analysis
China has a larger economy than Laos, with a nominal GDP roughly 1135.8 times greater based on 2024 data. Laos recorded a GDP of $16.50B, while China stood at $18.74T.
In terms of GDP per capita, China leads over Laos. Laos has a per capita output of $2,124, compared to $13,303 for China.
China has a larger population than Laos. Laos is home to approximately 7.8M people, while China has about 1.41B.
By surface area, China is the larger country. Laos covers 236,800 km2, and China spans 9,562,910 km2.
Life expectancy is higher in China: 69.0 years in Laos versus 78.0 years in China. Laos has the lower unemployment rate (Laos: 1.19%, China: 4.62%). Inflation stands at 23.13% in Laos and 0.22% in China.
These figures are drawn from World Bank Open Data and reflect the most recent available reporting year for each indicator. For historical trends and additional indicators, explore the individual country profiles on NationStat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which country has a larger GDP, Laos or China?
China has the larger GDP. Laos has a GDP of $16.50B (2024), while China has $18.74T (2024). Source: World Bank.
What is the population difference between Laos and China?
The population difference is approximately 1.40B. Laos has 7.8M people (2024), and China has 1.41B (2024). Source: World Bank.
Is Laos richer than China?
By GDP per capita, China is wealthier. Laos has a GDP per capita of $2,124 (2024), compared to $13,303 for China (2024). Source: World Bank.
Which country has higher life expectancy, Laos or China?
China has higher life expectancy. Laos: 69.0 years (2023), China: 78.0 years (2023). Source: World Bank.
Which country is bigger, Laos or China?
China is larger by area. Laos covers 236,800 km2, while China covers 9,562,910 km2. Source: World Bank.