Index to countries

Defined as economies with more than 25m people or with GDPs (Yr2000) in excess of $200bn or both. The selection of these larger economies is for illustrative purposes.

Notes: 1 All of these economies are placed in a development grade from one to seven and their capability for grade jumps (or income doublings) is assessed. That system is explained in the two references Grading system for economic development levels and in the Key to growth possibilities.

2 These country analyses are very brief one or two page illustrations of the economic possibilities facing that nation. They are obviously only indicative, and are not intended to deal with, or to discuss in any depth, the main problems facing that country, although they may mention these.

3 The national income data in these tables is taken from the CIA fact book and relates to the year 2000, but the population estimate generally relates to July 2001. The GDP/head data derived from these figures can be inaccurate by a few percent, but that is accurate enough for our purposes. As a source of up to date statistical data, the CIA fact book seems first class. As a source of comment on economic policy, however, the CIA fact book comments on issues from the IMF's viewpoint.

4 The national economies of the central European Union - that is, the economies which have established the Euro Zone from 1 January 2001 - are not mentioned individually in these summaries. These nations have established one economy through the establishment of one currency, so there is an entry for United Europe. The United Kingdom, which is still outside the Euro Zone, is listed.

5 Most of these illustrative national summaries contain a table showing the different incomes per head which would be attainable if the country had a different rate of economic growth, with underpinning economic policies. These tables offer no further projection of rapid growth when income per head exceeds about $25,000. High growth is not available once a country reaches the Carrington Plateau, which is one of the Carrington Limits.

6 Some people may think these tables underestimate a nation's rate of economic growth. The growth rates quoted in the tables are growth of real income per head, approximately equal to GDP growth minus population growth. This should be kept in mind.

7 The outline format of these national summaries is given at Key to national index analysis pages.

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Algeria

Argentina

Australia

Bangladesh

Brazil

Canada

China

Columbia

Democratic Republic of the Congo (Previously Zaire)

Egypt