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GDP & GNP – Definitions & Differences

This chapter focuses only on GDP vs GNP, a favourite exam question.


1. Definitions

(a) Gross Domestic Product (GDP)

GDP is the money value of all final goods and services produced within the domestic territory of a country during a year, irrespective of who owns the factors.

(b) Gross National Product (GNP)

GNP is the money value of all final goods and services produced by normal residents of a country during a year, irrespective of where they are located.

Relation:

GNP = GDP + Net Factor Income from Abroad (NFIA)

NFIA
NFIA = Income earned by residents from abroad − Income paid to non-residents.

2. Simple Numerical Illustration

Suppose:

  • GDP of country = ₹5,000 crore.
  • Residents earn factor income from abroad = ₹400 crore.
  • Foreigners earn factor income from this country = ₹300 crore.

Then:

  • NFIA = 400 − 300 = ₹100 crore
  • GNP = GDP + NFIA = 5,000 + 100 = ₹5,100 crore

Calculating GNP from GDP

Step 1 (Find NFIA = income from abroad − income to abroad.)
Add: Step 2 (Add NFIA to GDP to get GNP.)

3. GDP vs GNP – Comparison Table

GDP

  • Product within domestic territory
  • Includes income of foreigners working inside country
  • Excludes income earned by residents from abroad
  • Indicator of domestic production capacity
VS

GNP

  • Product by normal residents
  • Includes income earned by residents from abroad
  • Excludes income of foreigners inside country
  • Better indicator of income of residents

4. Quick Revision Points

  • GDP – by where produced (domestic territory).
  • GNP – by who produces (normal residents).
  • GNP = GDP + NFIA.

5. Quiz Time 🎯

Test Your Knowledge

Question 1 of 5

1. GDP measures production:

By residents anywhere
Within domestic territory
Only by government
Only in agriculture