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Data Starter: Change in global economic power since 1980

Elizabeth Veal

6th January 2026

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How has the economic power of the top 10 economies changed since 1980?

Using this Visual Capital infographic, answer these calculation questions:

  1. Calculate the percentage increase between 2000 and 2025 in the economic size for (a) the UK, (b) the USA and (c) China.
  2. Compare the size of the Chinese economy in 2025 to the combined size of (a) all G7 countries and then (b) G7 excluding the USA.

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Elizabeth Veal

Liz has taught Economics for over 25 years, including several years as Head of Economics at leading schools.