The Impact of Population Size on Economic Development

Population size directly affects the economy through the size of the workforce, consumer base, and market potential. A larger population often contributes to higher production and consumption, which can accelerate economic growth. However, if resources, infrastructure, or employment do not keep pace with population growth, it can result in poverty, unemployment, and pressure on public services.

Countries with smaller populations face challenges such as a lack of workforce and limited domestic markets but can often achieve a higher standard of living if they are economically developed and well-organized.

✅ Positive Example: China and India
China and India, the most populous countries in the world, successfully leverage their large labor force for economic growth. China has become an industrial leader thanks to its cheap and abundant labor, attracting foreign investments and enabling rapid industrial development. India utilizes its youthful population for developing the IT sector and service economy, contributing to rapid consumption growth and technological advancement.

❌ Negative Example: Nigeria
Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa, faces significant challenges. Its high population growth rate often exceeds economic growth, leading to unemployment, poverty, and poor infrastructure. The lack of adequate investments and effective policies prevents sustainable development despite its vast demographic potential.

These examples show that population size is not always the key to economic development. The quality of economic policies, education, infrastructure, and innovation are often the decisive factors for successful growth.

This table clearly shows the absolute number of the world's population, as well as the percentage share of each country.

No.CountryPopulationTotal World PopulationShare of World Population (%)
1.India1.427.015.9778.036.882.50017.78
2.China1.425.093.2478.036.882.50017.76
3.United States336.403.0008.036.882.5004.20
4.Indonesia282.187.9878.036.882.5003.53
5.Nigeria233.500.6368.036.882.5002.92
6.Pakistan233.028.3028.036.882.5002.91
7.Brazil217.715.9738.036.882.5002.72
8.Bangladesh169.650.8538.036.882.5002.12
9.Russia146.722.2058.036.882.5001.83
10.Mexico132.649.5658.036.882.5001.66