By Sadiq Abdulfatah

Türkiye is expected to become the largest economy among Muslim-majority countries in 2026, according to the latest projections from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

In its April World Economic Outlook report, the IMF estimated that Türkiye’s gross domestic product (GDP) will reach $1.64 trillion this year. If achieved, it would move ahead of Indonesia, which has long held the top position among majority-Muslim nations.

Indonesia’s economy is projected to stand at $1.54 trillion, placing it second on the list.

Saudi Arabia is expected to rank third with a projected GDP of $1.39 trillion in 2026. These three countries are the only Muslim-majority nations forecast to have economies worth more than $1 trillion.

Economic analysts said Türkiye’s expected rise has been supported by growth in manufacturing, stronger exports, a recovery in tourism, and the effect of exchange rates on nominal GDP.

They added that Türkiye’s broad economy, which includes industry and services, has helped sustain stronger momentum compared to countries that depend mainly on raw materials or energy exports.

Indonesia, despite its large population and natural resources, has faced pressure from slower performance in some sectors and swings in global commodity prices.

Earlier in January, the IMF projected Türkiye’s economy would grow by 4.2 percent in 2026. However, in April, it revised the forecast down to 3.4 percent, citing the negative impact of high oil and natural gas prices.

Source: Hurriyet Daily News