Labor Productivity Output 2021
Labor productivity output measures economic efficiency by calculating GDP per hour worked in each country.
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Complete Data Rankings
Rank | Actions | ||
|---|---|---|---|
1 | Ireland | 173.668 USD | |
2 | Norway | 131.25 USD | |
3 | Switzerland | 99.483 USD | |
4 | Luxembourg | 91.464 USD | |
5 | Denmark | 90.233 USD | |
6 | Netherlands | 85.03 USD | |
7 | Austria | 84.391 USD | |
8 | Belgium | 83.713 USD | |
9 | Sweden | 83.161 USD | |
10 | Germany | 82.909 USD | |
11 | United States | 82.303 USD | |
12 | France | 78.916 USD | |
13 | Australia | 76.782 USD | |
14 | Finland | 72.213 USD | |
15 | Iceland | 71.415 USD | |
16 | United Kingdom | 68.418 USD | |
17 | Italy | 68.108 USD | |
18 | Qatar | 66.194 USD | |
19 | Singapore | 65.178 USD | |
20 | Saudi Arabia | 63.752 USD | |
21 | Canada | 63.507 USD | |
22 | Spain | 61.418 USD | |
23 | Taiwan | 59.005 USD | |
24 | Bahrain | 58.984 USD | |
25 | South Korea | 53.581 USD | |
26 | Estonia | 52.987 USD | |
27 | Turkey | 52.484 USD | |
28 | China, Hong Kong SAR | 52.48 USD | |
29 | Czech Republic | 51.393 USD | |
30 | New Zealand | 51.105 USD | |
31 | Slovenia | 51.1 USD | |
32 | Lithuania | 50.558 USD | |
33 | Japan | 48.555 USD | |
34 | Malta | 48.129 USD | |
35 | Trinidad and Tobago | 47.712 USD | |
36 | Kuwait | 46.685 USD | |
37 | Slovakia | 46.016 USD | |
38 | Cyprus | 45.988 USD | |
39 | Israel | 45.797 USD | |
40 | Poland | 44.869 USD | |
41 | United Arab Emirates | 44.6 USD | |
42 | Romania | 44.093 USD | |
43 | Latvia | 43.453 USD | |
44 | Georgia | 43.232 USD | |
45 | Hungary | 41.586 USD | |
46 | Portugal | 41.558 USD | |
47 | Croatia | 39.504 USD | |
48 | Uruguay | 38.699 USD | |
49 | Iraq | 38.306 USD | |
50 | Russia | 37.248 USD | |
51 | Bosnia and Herzegovina | 36.544 USD | |
52 | Kazakhstan | 35.813 USD | |
53 | Greece | 35.341 USD | |
54 | Gabon | 35.119 USD | |
55 | Chile | 34.832 USD | |
56 | Argentina | 34.768 USD | |
57 | Bulgaria | 34.628 USD | |
58 | Belarus | 34.202 USD | |
59 | Oman | 33.931 USD | |
60 | Mauritius | 30.003 USD | |
61 | Egypt | 29.506 USD | |
62 | Mexico | 28.646 USD | |
63 | Malaysia | 28.221 USD | |
64 | Costa Rica | 27.334 USD | |
65 | Algeria | 26.447 USD | |
66 | North Macedonia | 25.016 USD | |
67 | Serbia | 24.474 USD | |
68 | Armenia | 23.543 USD | |
69 | Dominican Republic | 23.391 USD | |
70 | Azerbaijan | 22.757 USD | |
71 | Syrian Arab Republic | 22.665 USD | |
72 | Republic of Moldova | 22.606 USD | |
73 | Ukraine | 21.65 USD | |
74 | South Africa | 21.635 USD | |
75 | Iran | 21.415 USD | |
76 | Brazil | 20.221 USD | |
77 | Sri Lanka | 20.185 USD | |
78 | Turkmenistan | 20.089 USD | |
79 | Jordan | 18.672 USD | |
80 | Ecuador | 18.548 USD | |
81 | Thailand | 18.212 USD | |
82 | Lebanon | 17.921 USD | |
83 | Albania | 17.643 USD | |
84 | Tunisia | 17.002 USD | |
85 | Paraguay | 16.997 USD | |
86 | Botswana | 16.937 USD | |
87 | Colombia | 16.697 USD | |
88 | China | 16.499 USD | |
89 | Namibia | 16.327 USD | |
90 | Indonesia | 13.814 USD | |
91 | Guatemala | 13.514 USD | |
92 | Morocco | 13.114 USD | |
93 | Peru | 12.362 USD | |
94 | Philippines | 12.207 USD | |
95 | Jamaica | 11.369 USD | |
96 | Vietnam | 11.199 USD | |
97 | Uzbekistan | 10.83 USD | |
98 | Myanmar | 9.999 USD | |
99 | Ghana | 9.427 USD | |
100 | Bolivia | 8.946 USD | |
101 | Kyrgyzstan | 8.898 USD | |
102 | Pakistan | 8.536 USD | |
103 | India | 8.116 USD | |
104 | Tajikistan | 8.096 USD | |
105 | Congo | 7.561 USD | |
106 | Kenya | 7.523 USD | |
107 | Côte d'Ivoire | 7.335 USD | |
108 | Bangladesh | 7.278 USD | |
109 | Nigeria | 7.12 USD | |
110 | Cameroon | 6.603 USD | |
111 | Angola | 6.473 USD | |
112 | Sudan | 5.511 USD | |
113 | Zambia | 5.16 USD | |
114 | Cambodia | 4.829 USD | |
115 | Rwanda | 4.78 USD | |
116 | Chad | 4.308 USD | |
117 | Senegal | 4.282 USD | |
118 | Ethiopia | 4.245 USD | |
119 | Zimbabwe | 4.17 USD | |
120 | Tanzania | 4.119 USD | |
121 | Malawi | 3.62 USD | |
122 | Yemen | 3.56 USD | |
123 | Mali | 3.492 USD | |
124 | Uganda | 3.308 USD | |
125 | Burkina Faso | 2.98 USD | |
126 | Mozambique | 2.682 USD | |
127 | Niger | 1.938 USD | |
128 | Congo, Democratic Republic of the | 1.793 USD | |
129 | Madagascar | 1.707 USD |
- #1
Ireland
- #2
Norway
- #3
Switzerland
- #4
Luxembourg
- #5
Denmark
- #6
Netherlands
- #7
Austria
- #8
Belgium
- #9
Sweden
- #10
Germany
Analysis: These countries represent the highest values in this dataset, showcasing significant scale and impact on global statistics.
- #129
Madagascar
- #128
Congo, Democratic Republic of the
- #127
Niger
- #126
Mozambique
- #125
Burkina Faso
- #124
Uganda
- #123
Mali
- #122
Yemen
- #121
Malawi
- #120
Tanzania
Context: These countries or territories have the lowest values, often due to geographic size, administrative status, or specific characteristics.
Insights by country
Congo
Congo ranked #105 globally with a Labor Productivity Output of 7.560773 USD in 2021. This figure is notably lower than the global average, reflecting challenges in economic development and infrastructure. Key factors contributing to this low productivity include limited access to modern technology and a workforce that is predominantly engaged in low-value agriculture.
Gabon
In 2021, Gabon achieved a Labor Productivity Output of 35.11949 USD, ranking #54 out of 129 countries. This figure is notably higher than many of its regional peers in Central Africa, indicating a relatively strong economic performance. The country's productivity can be attributed to its wealth of natural resources, particularly oil and timber, which drive economic activity and employment opportunities.
Iraq
Iraq achieved a labor productivity output of 38.306454 USD in 2021, ranking #49 out of 129 countries. This figure is below the global average, reflecting challenges in economic diversification and industrial development compared to higher-ranked nations.
The primary drivers of Iraq's labor productivity include its reliance on oil exports, which dominate the economy, and ongoing political instability that affects investment in other sectors. Additionally, demographic factors, such as a young workforce, present both opportunities and challenges for enhancing productivity in the long term.
Bosnia and Herzegovina
In 2021, Bosnia and Herzegovina achieved a Labor Productivity Output of 36.544075 USD, ranking #51 out of 129 countries. This figure is notably lower than the European Union average, indicating potential challenges in economic efficiency and workforce optimization. Contributing factors include a transitional economy still recovering from the impacts of the 1990s conflict, alongside a reliance on low-wage sectors that may hinder productivity growth.
Kenya
In 2021, Kenya ranked #106 globally for Labor Productivity Output, with a value of 7.523492 USD. This figure is notably lower than the global average, indicating challenges in productivity compared to higher-performing nations. Factors contributing to Kenya's labor productivity include a young and growing workforce, yet the economy faces obstacles such as infrastructure deficits and reliance on agriculture, which can limit efficiency and output.
Ethiopia
Ethiopia's Labor Productivity Output in 2021 was 4.2449546 USD, ranking it #118 out of 129 countries. This figure is notably lower than the global average, indicating significant room for improvement in economic efficiency. Key drivers of this low productivity include a largely agrarian economy, limited access to modern technology, and challenges in infrastructure development.
Bulgaria
Bulgaria ranked #57 globally in 2021 for Labor Productivity Output, with a value of 34.628296 USD. This places Bulgaria below the European Union average, reflecting challenges in productivity compared to its neighbors. Key drivers of this output include a transitioning economy that relies heavily on services and manufacturing, coupled with a workforce that faces demographic pressures such as an aging population and emigration of skilled labor.
Hungary
In 2021, Hungary achieved a global rank of #45 with a Labor Productivity Output of 41.586166 USD. This figure is notably higher than some neighboring countries, indicating a competitive edge in productivity within Central Europe. Key drivers of this productivity include Hungary's strategic location as a logistics hub in Europe and a skilled workforce bolstered by educational reforms aimed at enhancing vocational training.
Algeria
In 2021, Algeria achieved a Labor Productivity Output of 26.447344 USD, ranking #65 out of 129 countries. This figure is notably lower than the global average, indicating room for improvement in efficiency compared to top performers. Key drivers of Algeria's productivity include its reliance on the hydrocarbons sector, which dominates the economy, and challenges related to workforce skills and economic diversification.
Jordan
In 2021, Jordan achieved a global rank of #79 with a Labor Productivity Output of 18.672287 USD. This figure is below the global average, indicating challenges in economic efficiency compared to more productive economies. Key drivers of this productivity level include Jordan's reliance on sectors like services and tourism, which face volatility, as well as limited natural resources that constrain industrial growth.
Analysis & Context
Ireland leads the world in Labor Productivity Output with a value of 173.67 USD in 2021, while the global range spans from 1.71 USD in Madagascar to Ireland's peak. The global average Labor Productivity Output stands at 34.16 USD, providing a baseline for economic efficiency comparisons across 129 countries.
High Performers: Economic Structures and Policy Impacts
The top-performing countries in Labor Productivity Output, such as Ireland (173.67 USD), Norway (131.25 USD), and Switzerland (99.48 USD), are characterized by advanced economies with significant investment in technology and innovation. Ireland's leading position can be attributed to its strong presence of multinational corporations, low corporate tax rates, and a highly educated workforce. In contrast, Norway benefits from its wealth of natural resources, particularly oil and gas, which contribute to high productivity levels. Meanwhile, Switzerland's robust financial sector and skilled labor force help maintain its high output.
Challenges in Low Productivity Regions
On the opposite end of the spectrum, countries like Madagascar (1.71 USD), Congo, Democratic Republic of the (1.79 USD), and Niger (1.94 USD) face significant challenges that hinder productivity. These include political instability, limited access to education, and inadequate infrastructure. The reliance on agriculture, which typically yields lower productivity compared to industrial and service sectors, further exacerbates these challenges. For instance, Madagascar's economy is heavily dependent on agriculture, which accounts for a large share of employment but generates low economic output per hour worked.
Year-over-Year Dynamics and Influential Factors
The data shows notable year-over-year increases and decreases in Labor Productivity Output. The Syrian Arab Republic experienced the largest increase of 11.32 USD (99.8%), potentially due to stabilization efforts and reconstruction activities following years of conflict. Norway and Ireland also saw significant increases of 9.87 USD (8.1%) and 8.62 USD (5.2%), respectively, driven by economic resilience and strategic economic policies.
Conversely, Saudi Arabia faced the largest decrease of 10.88 USD (14.6%), reflecting the impact of fluctuating oil prices and efforts to diversify its economy. Additionally, Iran and Turkey experienced declines of 7.23 USD (25.2%) and 4.74 USD (8.3%), respectively, due to geopolitical tensions and economic sanctions that have strained their economies.
Geographic and Demographic Influences
Geographic and demographic factors play critical roles in shaping Labor Productivity Output. Countries with smaller populations and higher urbanization rates, such as Luxembourg (91.46 USD) and Denmark (90.23 USD), often exhibit higher productivity due to concentrated economic activities and efficient resource utilization. Urban centers tend to have better infrastructure, access to education, and a concentration of skilled labor, all of which contribute to higher output per hour worked.
In contrast, larger countries with significant rural populations, such as India and Indonesia, often face challenges in achieving high labor productivity due to the vast geographical spread and the need to uplift rural economies. These regions may require substantial investment in infrastructure and education to boost productivity.
In summary, Labor Productivity Output in 2021 highlights stark contrasts between countries, driven by economic structures, policies, and geographic factors. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for policymakers aiming to enhance productivity and economic efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions About Labor Productivity Output in 2021
Which country had the highest labor productivity output in 2021?
Ireland had the highest labor productivity output in 2021, with a value of 174 USD per hour worked.
What was the lowest labor productivity output recorded in 2021?
The lowest labor productivity output in 2021 was recorded by Madagascar, with a value of 1.71 USD per hour worked.
What was the average labor productivity output across all countries in 2021?
The average labor productivity output across all 129 countries in 2021 was 34.16 USD per hour worked.
What was the median labor productivity output value in 2021?
The median labor productivity output value in 2021 was 26.45 USD per hour worked.
Which countries were in the top 3 for labor productivity output in 2021?
The top 3 countries for labor productivity output in 2021 were Ireland with 174 USD, Norway with 131 USD, and Switzerland with 99.48 USD.
What was the range of labor productivity output values in 2021?
The range of labor productivity output values in 2021 spanned from 1.71 USD in Madagascar to 174 USD in Ireland.
Data Source
Productivity: output per hour worked | Feenstra et al. – Penn World Table via Our World in Data
Data produced by Feenstra et al. – Penn World Table, compiled and published by Our World in Data as "Productivity: output per hour worked".
Visit Data SourceCite this page
Geo Factbook. (n.d.). Labor Productivity Output by Country, 2021. Retrieved November 13, 2026, from https://geofactbook.com/fact/labor-productivity-output/2021
The figures on this page come from Productivity: output per hour worked | Feenstra et al. – Penn World Table via Our World in Data. For academic work, cite the original source as well.
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