Venezuela's Economy Surges 8.5% Amid Prolonged Growth Streak

Venezuela's economy grew by 8.5% in 2025, the country's government announced. This marks 19 consecutive quarters—nearly five years—of economic expansion. The data was reported by Delcy Rodríguez, the nation's interim president. She leads the government while President Nicolás Maduro campaigns for re-election. This period of growth follows a severe, years-long economic depression. That crisis saw the economy shrink by roughly 80% and caused millions of Venezuelans to emigrate. The recent growth is attributed to a partial dollarization of the economy and a boom in informal oil exports. These exports have continued despite extensive U.S. sanctions targeting Venezuela's key industry. Economists note that the growth is starting from an extremely low base. They caution that significant challenges, including high inflation and widespread poverty, persist for the population.