ASEAN economies show a wide gap in income levels, as reflected in the 2026 GDP per capita forecast by the IMF. Singapore ranks first by a large margin, with a projected GDP per capita of USD 99,040, far surpassing all other member states. This reflects Singapore’s highly developed, export-oriented economy, strong financial sector, and high productivity levels.
In second place is Brunei, with a forecast GDP per capita of USD 35,410. Brunei’s high ranking is largely driven by its energy-rich economy, particularly oil and gas revenues, combined with a small population. While its economy is less diversified than Singapore’s, natural resource wealth continues to support high income levels.
Third is Malaysia, projected to reach a GDP per capita of USD 14,760 in 2026. Malaysia stands out as an upper-middle-income economy in ASEAN, supported by manufacturing, services, and a relatively diversified economic structure. Together, Singapore, Brunei, and Malaysia dominate the top of the ASEAN GDP per capita rankings, highlighting the stark economic contrasts within the region.
