Agriculture Value Added as a Share of GDP by Country 1978

Explore the agriculture value added as a share of GDP by country, measuring the economic impact of farming sectors. This statistic highlights the importance of agriculture in national economies and informs investment decisions.

188 data points•Updated 12/17/2025•World•Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)•

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Complete Data Rankings

Rank
1	China	61,029,935,888 $
2	Brazil	16,752,454,057 $
3	Australia	8,780,798,213 $
4	Canada	8,678,553,398 $
5	Colombia	5,118,537,993 $
6	Bangladesh	4,986,560,531 $
7	Congo, Democratic Republic of the	4,446,172,249 $
8	Argentina	4,146,827,193 $
9	Austria	2,739,288,048 $
10	Belgium	2,658,801,501 $
11	Algeria	2,362,276,017 $
12	Bulgaria	2,304,063,433 $
13	Côte d'Ivoire	2,020,337,515 $
14	Cuba	1,999,182,423 $
15	Afghanistan	1,657,178,880 $
16	Cameroon	1,153,412,972 $
17	Albania	1,084,112,844 $
18	Chile	962,764,901.6 $
19	Angola	701,918,577.4 $
20	Costa Rica	632,729,830.6 $
21	Bolivia	563,352,462.1 $
22	Burkina Faso	404,827,169.1 $
23	Cambodia	350,274,897.5 $
24	Chad	316,544,923.3 $
25	Burundi	310,947,777.8 $
26	Central African Republic	294,613,818.4 $
27	Congo	174,648,854.1 $
28	Cyprus	159,274,825.1 $
29	Botswana	93,716,529.71 $
30	Bhutan	40,066,885.72 $
31	Antigua and Barbuda	3,995,411.481 $
32	Armenia	NaN $
33	Azerbaijan	NaN $
34	Benin	307,594,549.1 $
35	Barbados	40,072,037.5 $
36	Bahamas	30,032,190.03 $
37	Belize	27,490,096.5 $
38	Bahrain	21,692,418.93 $
39	Belarus	NaN $
40	Bosnia and Herzegovina	NaN $
41	Comoros	38,705,680.92 $
42	Cabo Verde	23,362,807.43 $
43	Brunei Darussalam	8,812,215.348 $
44	Estonia	NaN $
45	Cook Islands	3,847,791.175 $
46	Croatia	NaN $
47	Czech Republic	NaN $
48	India	46,034,325,470 $
49	Japan	42,361,051,900 $
50	France	21,131,725,032 $
51	Italy	19,675,679,184 $
52	Germany	17,372,123,211 $
53	Indonesia	14,651,373,414 $
54	Iran	5,818,455,328 $
55	Egypt	5,815,514,053 $
56	Greece	4,439,705,577 $
57	Finland	2,986,343,015 $
58	Denmark	2,842,441,690 $
59	Ghana	2,789,982,176 $
60	Hungary	2,764,704,116 $
61	Ireland	2,225,670,276 $
62	Ecuador	2,168,870,000 $
63	Kenya	1,726,180,333 $
64	Iraq	1,000,898,107 $
65	Guatemala	828,721,521.8 $
66	Dominican Republic	828,086,856.8 $
67	Israel	827,589,466.9 $
68	El Salvador	693,935,088 $
69	Honduras	569,931,068 $
70	Haiti	447,491,206.5 $
71	Guinea	325,851,976.7 $
72	Iceland	267,916,127.6 $
73	Jamaica	236,257,960.9 $
74	Guinea-Bissau	234,232,606.2 $
75	Gambia	210,969,668.1 $
76	Jordan	199,931,311.9 $
77	Fiji	172,893,560.8 $
78	Gabon	147,944,345.7 $
79	Lebanon	146,882,894.4 $
80	Guyana	109,096,489.5 $
81	Laos	108,297,061.2 $
82	Eswatini	106,829,270.6 $
83	Djibouti	17,450,766.93 $
84	Dominica	14,759,259.26 $
85	Equatorial Guinea	6,442,488.068 $
86	Eritrea	NaN $
87	Ethiopia	NaN $
88	Georgia	NaN $
89	Grenada	13,734,826.67 $
90	Kazakhstan	NaN $
91	Kuwait	36,356,662.63 $
92	Kiribati	6,287,719.161 $
93	Kyrgyzstan	NaN $
94	Latvia	NaN $
95	Nigeria	21,292,915,098 $
96	Mexico	11,603,036,785 $
97	Poland	9,288,149,091 $
98	Pakistan	7,371,474,356 $
99	Philippines	6,417,642,347 $
100	Netherlands	5,505,208,611 $
101	Portugal	4,487,130,373 $
102	Romania	4,336,736,156 $
103	Malaysia	4,107,439,059 $
104	Morocco	2,737,826,017 $
105	North Korea	2,576,936,399 $
106	Myanmar	2,067,881,945 $
107	Mozambique	2,030,846,833 $
108	Norway	1,967,475,798 $
109	New Zealand	1,646,576,978 $
110	Peru	1,291,982,778 $
111	Madagascar	1,027,204,319 $
112	Nepal	988,160,041.9 $
113	Malawi	984,529,260.5 $
114	Niger	925,899,011.3 $
115	Mali	833,508,170.3 $
116	Papua New Guinea	756,768,835.6 $
117	Paraguay	515,780,670.3 $
118	Rwanda	467,644,555 $
119	Nicaragua	457,332,714.1 $
120	Libya	450,416,821.6 $
121	Mauritania	390,373,190.1 $
122	Panama	283,042,684.3 $
123	Mauritius	165,971,335.4 $
124	Liberia	120,669,402 $
125	Luxembourg	100,461,174.8 $
126	Lesotho	45,277,729.81 $
127	Lithuania	NaN $
128	Namibia	115,513,051.7 $
129	Mongolia	48,019,111.26 $
130	Malta	31,219,316.55 $
131	Qatar	28,631,122.81 $
132	Saint Lucia	13,985,971.85 $
133	Maldives	8,758,463.332 $
134	Montenegro	NaN $
135	Saint Vincent and the Grenadines	7,432,085.185 $
136	Saint Kitts and Nevis	4,266,666.667 $
137	Nauru	2,316,532.449 $
138	North Macedonia	NaN $
139	Oman	102,483,248.7 $
140	Republic of Moldova	NaN $
141	Russia	NaN $
142	United States	52,976,193,846 $
143	Turkey	20,363,586,446 $
144	Spain	12,627,972,163 $
145	South Korea	10,351,239,669 $
146	United Kingdom	6,432,233,165 $
147	Thailand	6,133,425,937 $
148	Sweden	6,114,465,501 $
149	South Africa	2,908,859,091 $
150	Vietnam	2,790,598,517 $
151	Switzerland	2,340,694,905 $
152	Venezuela	2,325,581,395 $
153	Syrian Arab Republic	1,756,666,667 $
154	Tanzania	1,428,930,086 $
155	Uganda	1,411,469,345 $
156	Saudi Arabia	1,203,720,027 $
157	Tunisia	841,190,813.5 $
158	Uruguay	661,758,162.7 $
159	Sri Lanka	590,762,050.2 $
160	Senegal	556,637,152.3 $
161	Zimbabwe	541,564,788 $
162	Zambia	349,425,062.4 $
163	Sierra Leone	337,923,932.1 $
164	Somalia	276,543,353.1 $
165	Trinidad and Tobago	219,061,220.5 $
166	Togo	197,543,917.5 $
167	United Arab Emirates	135,091,606.4 $
168	Singapore	134,299,315.1 $
169	State of Palestine	90,882,508 $
170	Suriname	62,820,168.07 $
171	Solomon Islands	45,447,686.45 $
172	Samoa	24,470,189.58 $
173	Sao Tome and Principe	14,452,440.4 $
174	Serbia	NaN $
175	Tonga	19,488,295.11 $
176	Seychelles	7,926,473.531 $
177	Slovakia	NaN $
178	Slovenia	NaN $
179	South Sudan	NaN $
180	Sudan	NaN $
181	Tajikistan	NaN $
182	Timor-Leste	NaN $
183	Turkmenistan	NaN $
184	Tuvalu	560,797.589 $
185	Ukraine	NaN $
186	Uzbekistan	NaN $
187	Vanuatu	29,700,861.5 $
188	Yemen	NaN $

↑Top 10 Countries

Analysis: These countries represent the highest values in this dataset, showcasing significant scale and impact on global statistics.

↓Bottom 10 Countries

Context: These countries or territories have the lowest values, often due to geographic size, administrative status, or specific characteristics.

Analysis & Context

The Agriculture Value Added as a Share of GDP by Country in 1978 offers a fascinating insight into the economic foundations of various nations around the globe. This metric quantifies the economic contribution of the agriculture sector to a country's overall Gross Domestic Product (GDP), serving as a critical indicator of agricultural significance in national economies. Understanding these values not only reflects the magnitude of agriculture's role but also informs strategic investment and development decisions across the globe.

Global Economic Landscape of Agriculture in 1978

In 1978, agriculture played a varied role in the economies of different countries, as reflected in the value added to GDP. China emerged as a powerhouse with an agriculture value added of $61,029,935,888, leading the global list. The United States followed with $52,976,193,846, underscoring its substantial agricultural sector. India and Japan also ranked high, with values of $46,034,325,470 and $42,361,051,900 respectively, illustrating the critical role of agriculture in sustaining large populations and industrial growth. In contrast, smaller nations such as Tuvalu and Nauru showed minimal agriculture value added at $560,797.59 and $2,316,532.45, highlighting their limited agricultural capacity and a probable reliance on other sectors for economic stability.

Regional Contrasts and Agricultural Dependence

The data from 1978 also point to significant regional contrasts in agricultural dependence. Africa and parts of Asia saw notable contributions from agriculture, exemplified by Nigeria with a value of $21,292,915,098. This reflects agriculture's role not only as an economic activity but also as a lifeline for sustenance and employment in these regions. Meanwhile, European countries such as France and Italy, despite having robust agricultural sectors, highlighted a more diversified economic structure with values of $21,131,725,032 and $19,675,679,184 respectively. These figures suggest a more balanced economic portfolio where agriculture, though significant, is complemented by industrial and service sectors.

Year-over-Year Changes and Economic Implications

Analyzing year-over-year changes uncovers dynamic shifts within the agriculture sectors of various nations. China saw a remarkable increase of $9,867,925,854 (19.3%), reflecting perhaps advancements in agricultural productivity and policy support. Similarly, Japan experienced a significant rise of $9,298,211,722 (28.1%), indicating shifts towards optimizing agricultural methods. On the other end of the spectrum, Brazil witnessed a decrease of $1,055,479,812 (-5.9%). This decline suggests potential challenges such as environmental issues, shifts in policy, or economic diversification, which could have impacted its agricultural output.

Economic Development and Agricultural Contributions

The interplay between economic development and agriculture is critical. Countries exhibiting substantial agriculture value added, like India, underscore the sector's role in economic development strategies aimed at improving rural livelihoods and enhancing food security. The figures also mirror the transition phases of economies striving for industrialization while maintaining their agricultural roots. Investments in agricultural technology and infrastructure in these nations likely contributed to the increased economic value added by the sector.

Policy and Investment Insights for Future Growth

The 1978 data provides key insights for policymakers and investors. Nations with high agricultural value added, such as China and the United States, could focus on sustainable agricultural practices and technological innovations to enhance productivity while minimizing environmental impacts. For countries with lower values, such as Tuvalu and Nauru, diversifying economic activities and investing in niche agricultural markets could be beneficial. Strategic investments and policies that prioritize sustainable practices, research, and rural development can further optimize agriculture's contribution to GDP, ensuring long-term economic resilience.

In summary, the Agriculture Value Added as a Share of GDP by Country in 1978 paints a detailed picture of agriculture's role across the globe. As nations navigate economic transformations, these insights remain crucial for shaping policies that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring agriculture continues to be a cornerstone of global economies.

Insights by country

Laos

In 1978, Laos ranked 121 out of 188 countries in terms of Agriculture Value Added as a share of GDP, with a total value of $108,297,061.2. This statistic reflects the significant reliance of the Laotian economy on agriculture, which was a primary sector contributing to the nation's economic output at the time.

The prominence of agriculture in Laos can be attributed to several factors, including its geography, which is characterized by mountainous terrain and a climate suitable for various crops. The majority of the population engaged in subsistence farming, which not only provided food security but also formed the backbone of rural livelihoods. Additionally, the socio-economic conditions of the time, following the Laotian Civil War and the establishment of the Lao People's Democratic Republic, resulted in a limited industrial base, further emphasizing the importance of agriculture.

Interestingly, agriculture has historically played a critical role in developing countries, often representing a substantial portion of GDP. In Laos, this emphasis on agriculture has continued to shape policies and economic strategies, reflecting the ongoing challenges and opportunities within the sector.

North Korea

In 1978, North Korea ranked 43rd out of 188 countries in terms of agricultural value added as a share of GDP. The agricultural sector contributed approximately $2,576,936,399 to the nation's economy, reflecting its significant role in the country's overall economic structure during this period.

This high ranking and substantial value can be attributed to North Korea's emphasis on self-sufficiency and agriculture, particularly under the policies of the Kim Il-sung regime. The government implemented collective farming and state control over agricultural production, which aimed to boost food security and reduce reliance on imports.

Despite these efforts, North Korea faced challenges such as recurrent natural disasters, inefficient agricultural practices, and limited access to modern farming technology, which ultimately impacted productivity. Additionally, the prioritization of military expenditure often diverted resources away from agricultural development, affecting overall growth in this sector.

Indonesia

In 1978, Indonesia ranked 11th out of 188 countries in terms of agriculture value added as a share of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The agriculture sector contributed approximately $14,651,373,414 to the country's economy, highlighting its significance during this period.

The substantial contribution of agriculture to Indonesia's GDP can be attributed to the country's vast natural resources and favorable climatic conditions, which supported the cultivation of various crops such as rice, palm oil, and rubber. Additionally, a large portion of the population was employed in the agricultural sector, driving rural livelihoods and economic stability.

During this time, Indonesia was undergoing significant development and modernization, which influenced agricultural practices and productivity. The government implemented various agricultural policies aimed at improving food security and enhancing export capacities, reflecting the importance of agriculture in the national economic framework.

Namibia

In 1978, Namibia ranked 119th out of 188 countries in terms of agriculture value added as a share of GDP. The total agriculture value added for the country during this year was approximately $115,513,051.70, reflecting a significant but limited role of agriculture in the overall economy at that time.

The relatively low contribution of agriculture to Namibia's GDP can be attributed to several factors, including the country's arid climate, which limits arable land and reduces agricultural productivity. Additionally, the political and economic context of Namibia in 1978, as it was still under South African administration, impacted investment and development in the agricultural sector.

Furthermore, Namibia's economy was heavily reliant on mining and natural resources, which overshadowed agricultural activities. In the broader context, agriculture in Southern Africa faced challenges such as drought, land tenure issues, and the need for modernization, which also influenced Namibia's agricultural output during this period.

Iran

In 1978, Iran ranked 23rd out of 188 countries in terms of agriculture value added as a share of GDP. The total value of agriculture in the Iranian economy at that time was approximately $5,818,455,328. This significant contribution to the GDP reflected the importance of agriculture in Iran's economy, particularly prior to the Islamic Revolution.

The high share of agriculture in GDP during this period can be attributed to several factors, including Iran's vast and diverse agricultural resources, favorable climate conditions, and a large rural workforce engaged in farming and livestock production. Additionally, the oil boom of the 1970s had not yet fully overshadowed the agricultural sector, allowing it to maintain a prominent role in the economic landscape.

In contrast to subsequent years, where the agriculture sector's contribution to GDP declined due to urbanization and industrialization, the 1978 statistic highlights a time when Iran's economy was still heavily reliant on agrarian outputs. Notably, Iran was one of the leading producers of various crops, including wheat, rice, and fruits, which played a vital role in both domestic consumption and export markets.

Benin

In 1978, Benin ranked 99th out of 188 countries in terms of Agriculture Value Added as a share of GDP. The value for this metric was approximately $307,594,549.1, indicating a significant reliance on the agricultural sector for the country's economic output.

This reliance on agriculture can be attributed to several factors, including Benin's geographic and climatic conditions that favor the cultivation of various crops, such as cotton, maize, and cassava. Additionally, agriculture has traditionally been a cornerstone of Benin's economy, providing employment to a large proportion of the population and contributing to food security.

Interestingly, during this period, Benin was undergoing significant political changes, which may have affected agricultural policies and productivity. Following the 1972 coup, the government implemented various reforms aimed at boosting agricultural production, which were essential for economic stability in the context of post-colonial challenges.

Botswana

In 1978, Botswana ranked 125th out of 188 countries in terms of agriculture value added as a share of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The agriculture sector contributed approximately $93,716,529.71 to the national economy during this period, reflecting the importance of agriculture in the country's economic structure.

This statistic highlights Botswana's reliance on agriculture, which was a significant sector for employment and livelihood, especially in rural areas. However, the country's economy was transitioning, with increased emphasis on diamond mining, which would later dominate its economic landscape.

Factors contributing to the relatively low rank include the harsh climatic conditions, limited arable land, and periodic droughts, which hinder agricultural productivity. Additionally, Botswana's focus on diversifying its economy away from agriculture towards mining and services has led to a gradual decline in the agricultural sector's relative importance.

Peru

In 1978, Peru ranked 61st out of 188 countries in terms of agriculture value added as a share of GDP. The country's agriculture sector contributed approximately $1,291,982,778 to its economy during this period, highlighting its significant role in the national income.

This substantial contribution can be attributed to Peru's diverse agricultural landscape, which includes the cultivation of crops such as potatoes, maize, and coffee, as well as the production of livestock. Factors influencing the agricultural output during this time included favorable climatic conditions, the traditional agricultural practices of indigenous communities, and the government's agricultural policies aimed at boosting production.

Additionally, agriculture in Peru was a critical source of employment, engaging a large portion of the rural population. The importance of this sector was underscored by the country's reliance on agricultural exports, which played a vital role in foreign trade and economic stability.

Nepal

Nepal ranked 67th out of 188 countries in terms of agriculture value added as a share of GDP in the year 1978. The total value of agriculture value added was approximately $988,160,041.9, highlighting the significance of this sector in the national economy during that period.

Agriculture has historically been a cornerstone of Nepal's economy, employing a large portion of the population and contributing significantly to the country's GDP. Factors influencing this statistic include the country's predominantly agrarian society, reliance on subsistence farming, and the limited industrial development at the time.

Additionally, in 1978, Nepal faced challenges such as geographic constraints, including mountainous terrain, which limited agricultural productivity and access to markets. Despite these challenges, the agriculture sector remained vital, underscoring its role in food security and economic stability for a largely rural population.

Lesotho

In 1978, Lesotho ranked 130th out of 188 countries in terms of agriculture value added as a share of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP), with a reported value of $45,277,729.81. This statistic reflects the significant role that agriculture played in the nation's economy during this period, where it constituted a crucial source of livelihood for a substantial portion of the population.

The agrarian nature of Lesotho's economy can be attributed to its geographical landscape, characterized by mountainous terrain that limits agricultural expansion and mechanization. Furthermore, factors such as climatic variability, land tenure systems, and reliance on subsistence farming practices have historically influenced agricultural productivity and economic stability.

In addition to the economic implications, the agricultural sector in Lesotho has often been linked to social and cultural dynamics, where farming practices are intertwined with community identity and traditions. Despite its relatively low contribution to GDP compared to other sectors, agriculture remains a vital component of food security and rural employment in Lesotho.

Data Source

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger.

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Historical Data by Year

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