5 Countries with the Highest Debt to GDP Ratios

4. Venezuela

  • Current Debt-to-GDP Ratio: ~164% – 180%
  • Trend Since 2023: Moderate Increase
  • Analysis: The IMF warned in February 2026 that Venezuela’s humanitarian and economic situation remains “quite fragile.” Public debt has climbed as the country struggles with triple-digit inflation and a depreciating currency. This figure does not yet factor in potential court rulings from old defaults, which could push the total even higher if ties with global lenders are restored.