5 Fastest Declining Economies in the World in 2026

​4. Equatorial Guinea

5-Year Average Real GDP Growth Rate: -2.02%

Real GDP Growth Rate 2026: -2.7%

​Equatorial Guinea is a small, yet oil-rich country on the west coast of Central Africa. The economy of the country is heavily reliant on oil and gas, which form around 80% to 90% of its exports and government revenue.

​Equatorial Guinea has been facing a series of challenges ranging from structural issues to declining oil output and maturing oil fields. The IMF expects the country to have a negative real GDP growth rate of 2.7%. Its 5-year average growth has been negative 2.02%, indicating persistent challenges.