Afghanistan flag

Afghanistan

Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Capital

Kabul

Region

Asia

Population

43,844,000

Area (km²)

652,230

💡Quick Summary

Afghanistan, a landlocked nation in Central Asia with an area of 652,230 km², is home to a population of about 43.8 million people and features Kabul as its bustling capital. Known for its rugged mountainous terrain and diverse ethnic groups, the country has a complex history shaped by ancient trade routes like the Silk Road. While GDP data is currently unavailable, Afghanistan's economy relies heavily on agriculture, mining, and international aid amidst ongoing political challenges.

Key Insights

High Fertility Amidst Low Life Expectancy and Economic Hardship

Afghanistan exhibits one of the highest fertility rates globally at 4.84 births per woman, contrasting sharply with a relatively low life expectancy of 66.04 years. This demographic pattern suggests significant population growth despite challenging health and economic conditions, including a low GDP per capita of $413.76.

Unusual Deflation Amidst Economic Instability

Afghanistan recorded a deflation rate of -4.645% in 2023, a highly unusual economic phenomenon, especially for a developing nation often prone to inflation. This could indicate a severe contraction in consumer demand, oversupply, or a strong currency appreciation, potentially masking deeper economic challenges despite a positive GDP growth rate of 2.267%.

Significant Access to Electricity Despite Low Urbanization

Despite a relatively low urban population of 25.473%, Afghanistan reports a high rate of access to electricity at 85.300%. This suggests a considerable effort in rural electrification or a concentrated population in smaller towns with grid access, which is noteworthy for a country with its geographical and developmental challenges.

High Infant Mortality Reflects Health System Strain

Afghanistan faces a significant public health challenge with an infant mortality rate of 50.400 per 1,000 live births. This figure is considerably high by global standards and points to critical deficiencies in maternal and child healthcare, sanitation, or nutrition, impacting the youngest segment of its rapidly growing population.

Economic Indicators
Latest economic data from World Bank

GDP (Current US$)

$17.15B

Year: 2023

GDP Per Capita

$413.76

GDP Growth (%)

2.27%

Inflation (%)

-4.65%

Unemployment (%)

14.01%

Debt to GDP (%)

N/A%

Source: World Bank • Last updated: 2/17/2026

Historical Trends & Data Visualizations

GDP Growth Rate
Annual percentage change in GDP over time
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023-21.00%-14.00%-7.00%0.00%7.00%
  • GDP Growth (%)
Population Growth
Total population over time
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023015,000,00030,000,00045,000,00060,000,000
  • Population
Life Expectancy
Average life expectancy at birth (years)
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230.0years20.0years40.0years60.0years80.0years
  • Life Expectancy (years)
Renewable Energy Consumption
Percentage of total energy from renewable sources
2014201520162017201820192020202120220.0%6.0%12.0%18.0%24.0%
  • Renewable Energy (%)
GDP Per Capita
Economic output per person (current US$)
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023$0$200$400$600$800
  • GDP Per Capita ($)

Share This Country

Local Resources
Curated links to local news, real estate, events, and official websites