Switzerland has reclaimed the number one spot in the IMD World Competitiveness Ranking 2025, reinforcing its reputation as a global leader in innovation, infrastructure, and effective governance. Published annually by the Institute for Management Development (IMD) in Lausanne, the ranking evaluates how 69 economies support sustainable value creation and business growth.
Why This Ranking Matters
The IMD Competitiveness Ranking is recognized as one of the most respected and data-driven global benchmarks for assessing the economic and business environment of nations. It is widely used by governments, investors, and global companies to inform policy, investment strategy, and reform priorities.
The ranking stands out for its balanced methodology:
- 2/3 of the data is derived from objective statistics (e.g. GDP, productivity, education, infrastructure).
- 1/3 is based on surveys of over 6,000 executives worldwide, capturing first-hand insights into business perceptions and challenges.
Top 10 Countries in 2025
- Switzerland – Leading in infrastructure, public sector efficiency, and education.
- Singapore – A model of consistency in digital economy and regulatory quality.
- Hong Kong SAR
- Denmark
- United Arab Emirates (UAE) – Rising steadily through strategic reforms.
- Taiwan (Chinese Taipei)
- Ireland
- Sweden
- Qatar
- Netherlands
Other notable shifts:
- Saudi Arabia surged to 17th place, driven by infrastructure upgrades and economic diversification.
- Canada advanced 8 places, reflecting improvements in business confidence and innovation capacity.
What Is Measured?
Countries are assessed across four main pillars:
- Economic Performance – Growth, trade, employment, and prices.
- Government Efficiency – Public finance, legislation, institutional quality.
- Business Efficiency – Labor market, productivity, attitudes and values.
- Infrastructure – Technology, education, health, and sustainability.
A Globally Trusted Benchmark
Since its launch in 1989, the IMD Competitiveness Ranking has become a critical tool for understanding how nations position themselves for long-term success in a globalized economy. Its combination of quantitative data and executive opinion makes it uniquely relevant to real-world decision-making.
As global competition intensifies, the 2025 ranking underscores the importance of agility, innovation, and good governance — and highlights which countries are setting the pace for the future.
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