What does Gross Domestic Product (GDP) measure?

Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is a comprehensive measure of a nation's overall economic activity. Specifically, it quantifies the total market value of all goods and services produced within a country over a specific period, typically a year or a quarter. This measurement provides insights into the economic performance and health of a country.

Using GDP as an indicator allows governments and economists to assess the productivity and growth potential of an economy, helping them make informed decisions about economic policy and strategy. It captures both the output of industries and the contributions of services, encompassing everything from manufacturing to retail and technology.

Understanding GDP is crucial for evaluating economic conditions, as it reflects how well a country is performing economically, independent of its population size, employment figures, or foreign investments, which are addressed by other economic indicators.