South Africa vs China
Comprehensive comparison of economic, demographic and social indicators
Key Indicators
| Indicator | South Africa | China | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| GDP (nominal) | $401.14B | $18.74T | 2024 |
| GDP per capita | $6,267 | $13,303 | 2024 |
| Population | 64.0M | 1.41B | 2024 |
| GDP growth rate | 0.53% | 4.98% | 2024 |
| Inflation rate | 4.36% | 0.22% | 2024 |
| Unemployment rate | 32.39% | 4.62% | 2025 |
| Life expectancy | 66.1 years | 78.0 years | 2023 |
| Surface area (sq. km) | 1,219,090 km2 | 9,562,910 km2 | 2023 |
South Africa vs China: Analysis
China has a larger economy than South Africa, with a nominal GDP roughly 46.7 times greater based on 2024 data. South Africa recorded a GDP of $401.14B, while China stood at $18.74T.
In terms of GDP per capita, China leads over South Africa. South Africa has a per capita output of $6,267, compared to $13,303 for China.
China has a larger population than South Africa. South Africa is home to approximately 64.0M people, while China has about 1.41B.
By surface area, China is the larger country. South Africa covers 1,219,090 km2, and China spans 9,562,910 km2.
Life expectancy is higher in China: 66.1 years in South Africa versus 78.0 years in China. China has the lower unemployment rate (South Africa: 32.39%, China: 4.62%). Inflation stands at 4.36% in South Africa 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, South Africa or China?
China has the larger GDP. South Africa has a GDP of $401.14B (2024), while China has $18.74T (2024). Source: World Bank.
What is the population difference between South Africa and China?
The population difference is approximately 1.34B. South Africa has 64.0M people (2024), and China has 1.41B (2024). Source: World Bank.
Is South Africa richer than China?
By GDP per capita, China is wealthier. South Africa has a GDP per capita of $6,267 (2024), compared to $13,303 for China (2024). Source: World Bank.
Which country has higher life expectancy, South Africa or China?
China has higher life expectancy. South Africa: 66.1 years (2023), China: 78.0 years (2023). Source: World Bank.
Which country is bigger, South Africa or China?
China is larger by area. South Africa covers 1,219,090 km2, while China covers 9,562,910 km2. Source: World Bank.