Malaysia vs China
Comprehensive comparison of economic, demographic and social indicators
Key Indicators
| Indicator | Malaysia | China | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| GDP (nominal) | $422.23B | $18.74T | 2024 |
| GDP per capita | $11,874 | $13,303 | 2024 |
| Population | 35.6M | 1.41B | 2024 |
| GDP growth rate | 5.11% | 4.98% | 2024 |
| Inflation rate | 1.83% | 0.22% | 2024 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.76% | 4.62% | 2025 |
| Life expectancy | 76.7 years | 78.0 years | 2023 |
| Surface area (sq. km) | 330,411 km2 | 9,562,910 km2 | 2023 |
Malaysia vs China: Analysis
China has a larger economy than Malaysia, with a nominal GDP roughly 44.4 times greater based on 2024 data. Malaysia recorded a GDP of $422.23B, while China stood at $18.74T.
In terms of GDP per capita, China leads over Malaysia. Malaysia has a per capita output of $11,874, compared to $13,303 for China.
China has a larger population than Malaysia. Malaysia is home to approximately 35.6M people, while China has about 1.41B.
By surface area, China is the larger country. Malaysia covers 330,411 km2, and China spans 9,562,910 km2.
Life expectancy is higher in China: 76.7 years in Malaysia versus 78.0 years in China. Malaysia has the lower unemployment rate (Malaysia: 3.76%, China: 4.62%). Inflation stands at 1.83% in Malaysia 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, Malaysia or China?
China has the larger GDP. Malaysia has a GDP of $422.23B (2024), while China has $18.74T (2024). Source: World Bank.
What is the population difference between Malaysia and China?
The population difference is approximately 1.37B. Malaysia has 35.6M people (2024), and China has 1.41B (2024). Source: World Bank.
Is Malaysia richer than China?
By GDP per capita, China is wealthier. Malaysia has a GDP per capita of $11,874 (2024), compared to $13,303 for China (2024). Source: World Bank.
Which country has higher life expectancy, Malaysia or China?
China has higher life expectancy. Malaysia: 76.7 years (2023), China: 78.0 years (2023). Source: World Bank.
Which country is bigger, Malaysia or China?
China is larger by area. Malaysia covers 330,411 km2, while China covers 9,562,910 km2. Source: World Bank.