What is the World Bank's forecast for global economic growth in 2025, and how does it compare to recent years?

The World Bank forecasts global economic growth of 2.5% in 2025 — the weakest since the Covid pandemic — down from 2.7% in 2024, with the slowdown attributed primarily to the war in the Middle East, rising inflation, and higher borrowing costs.

Why does the World Bank describe the 2020s as a 'lost decade' for most developing countries outside India and China?

The World Bank states that, aside from India and China, developing countries will have endured a decade without narrowing the gap with advanced economies, and that 'barring a miracle', the 2020s will be a 'lost decade' — a conclusion drawn from persistent challenges including commodity disruptions, inflationary pressures, food insecurity, financial stress, and rising government indebtedness that hampers policy responses.

Global Growth Slows to Lowest Level Since Pandemic, Says World Bank

Jun 11, 2026

The World Bank forecasts global growth will drop to 2.5% this year due to Middle East conflicts and rising inflation. Additionally, average fertilizer prices are projected to surge by 38% amid supply disruptions affecting developing nations.

theguardian

2026-04-28

World Bank Sees Commodity Prices Hitting Four-Year High in 2026

2026-06-11

World Bank Says Two-Thirds of Economies Face Hit From Iran War

2026-06-11

World Bank cuts global growth outlook to 2.5%, warns of drop to 1.3% if war fallout spreads to markets

2026-06-11

Global Growth Slows to Lowest Level Since Pandemic, Says World Bank

2026-07-01

World Bank Backs Nigeria With $1.25 Billion Development Loan