Spain to Remain Largest Spanish-Speaking Economy Through 2040, World Economic League Table Projects
Projections from the World Economic League Table affirm Spain's position as the largest Spanish-speaking economy until 2040, despite shifts in global economic rankings.
- • Spain's GDP projected to reach $1.88 trillion in 2025, largest among Spanish-speaking countries.
- • Spain to maintain 12th place globally with $3.37 trillion GDP by 2040.
- • Mexico will stay second but fall behind Spain in GDP ranking by 2040.
- • Global economy expected to grow from $117 trillion in 2025 to $227 trillion in 2040.
Key details
According to the latest data from the World Economic League Table (WELT), compiled by the Centre for Economics and Business Research (Cebr), Spain is set to remain the largest Spanish-speaking economy until at least 2040. Projections indicate that Spain’s GDP will reach approximately $1.88 trillion (1.6 trillion euros) by 2025, positioning it just behind Brazil ($2.26 trillion) and slightly ahead of Mexico ($1.86 trillion).
By 2040, Spain is expected to maintain its 12th place globally with a GDP of $3.37 trillion (2.86 trillion euros). Mexico, currently the second largest Spanish-speaking economy, is forecasted to fall to 15th place with a GDP of $3.27 trillion (2.78 trillion euros), solidifying Spain’s lead in Spanish-language economic rankings.
Spain’s ranking in the global economy has diminished gradually over the years; it was as high as 8th in 2003 and 9th in 2009. Additionally, in terms of GDP per capita, Spain is expected to drop from 33rd place in 2025 to 38th by 2040. Meanwhile, the global economy is projected to expand significantly—from $117 trillion in 2025 to around $227 trillion by 2040.
The dominance of Spain within Spanish-speaking economies contrasts with the global shifts forecasted in the world economic landscape. The United States is projected to remain the world’s leading economy through 2040; however, China is expected to surpass the US by 2045. India is also projected to rise substantially, becoming the world’s third largest economy by 2029, overtaking Germany, which will remain in fourth place. Japan and the UK are projected to experience a decline in their standings.
These forecasts, while reaffirming Spain’s sustained leadership among Spanish-speaking economies, also highlight the broader global economic transitions anticipated over the next two decades. Spain’s steady position reflects both its economic resilience and the competitive trajectories of emerging economies in the coming years.
This article was synthesized and translated from native language sources to provide English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
