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GNP Full Form (Gross National Product) Explained

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What is GNP in Economics? Definition, Example & Difference from GDP

The full form of GNP is Gross National Product, a key concept in economics that measures a nation’s total economic output. It is widely used in academic studies, competitive exams, and policy making, making it essential for students and professionals alike. In this article, we will explore the meaning, calculation, and significance of GNP in the field of economics.


Acronym Full Form Main Role
GNP Gross National Product Measures the total market value of goods and services produced by a country's residents, including income from abroad, in a given period.

Impact of GNP in Economics

The GNP plays a significant role in macroeconomics. It helps students and policymakers assess a country’s overall economic strength, especially its global economic activities. The Gross National Product provides an important benchmark for comparing economies and shaping economic policies.


  • Measures both domestic and international economic output of residents.
  • Indicates a nation's global economic participation.
  • Helps in analyzing trends in income earned abroad vs. domestically.

Role of GNP in Real-Life and Policy

The GNP has a vital role in shaping economic policy, planning budgets, and guiding development projects. Economists use GNP to compare living standards and decide on trade or investment strategies.


  • Influences government financial and social policies.
  • Supports international economic comparisons.
  • Helps set economic goals and track progress over time.

Relevance of GNP for Students

Understanding the GNP full form is crucial for students preparing for board exams, competitive tests, or pursuing careers in commerce and economics. It is a common topic in academic curricula and interview questions.


  • Frequently asked in school, college, and entrance exams.
  • Useful for projects and assignments in economics.
  • Forms the foundation for understanding other macroeconomic indicators.

GNP vs. GDP vs. NNP: Key Differences

Indicator Definition Calculation Basis
GNP Gross National Product Value of goods/services produced by residents (including abroad), minus income by foreigners in the country
GDP Gross Domestic Product Value of goods/services produced within a country’s borders (regardless of producer’s nationality)
NNP Net National Product GNP minus depreciation (loss of value of capital goods)

Key Role of GNP

The GNP is essential in analyzing a country’s economic health, international trade performance, and the standard of living for its people. It provides a broader picture than GDP, especially for countries with large overseas investments.


Page Summary

In conclusion, the GNP, which stands for Gross National Product, is integral to economic analysis and decision-making. Its importance in academic learning and real-world economics makes it a fundamental concept for students and professionals to understand for their educational and career growth.


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FAQs on GNP Full Form (Gross National Product) Explained

1. What is the full form of GNP in economics?

GNP stands for Gross National Product. It's a key macroeconomic indicator measuring a nation's total economic output.

2. How do you calculate Gross National Product?

GNP is calculated by summing the market value of all final goods and services produced by a country's residents, including income earned abroad. The formula can be complex, often involving subtracting indirect taxes and adding net factor income from abroad to GDP.

3. What is the difference between GNP and GDP?

GDP (Gross Domestic Product) measures the value of goods and services produced *within* a country's borders, regardless of who produces them. GNP includes the output of a country's residents, even if it's produced abroad. The key difference lies in the focus: location of production (GDP) versus nationality of producers (GNP).

4. Can you give a simple example of GNP?

Imagine a US citizen working in Canada. Their earnings in Canada contribute to Canadian GDP, but also to US GNP because they are a US resident. This illustrates how GNP considers the nationality of the producer rather than the location of production.

5. What does GNP mean in Hindi and Tamil?

The direct translation of GNP varies slightly across languages. In Hindi, a suitable translation would be सकल राष्ट्रीय उत्पाद (Sakal Rashtriya Utpād), and in Tamil, it could be மொத்த தேசிய உற்பத்தி (Motha Thēsiya Uṛpaṭṭi).

6. Why is GNP important for a country’s economy?

GNP is a crucial indicator of a nation's economic health and performance. It provides insights into overall economic growth, national income, and the standard of living. Tracking GNP helps governments and economists understand economic trends, assess the effectiveness of policies, and make informed decisions.

7. What is the difference between GNP, GDP, and NNP?

GNP (Gross National Product) measures the total output of a country's residents. GDP (Gross Domestic Product) measures the output within a country's borders. NNP (Net National Product) is GNP adjusted for depreciation (wear and tear of capital goods). The core differences relate to where production occurs (within borders vs. by citizens) and whether depreciation is accounted for.

8. What are some limitations of using GNP as an economic indicator?

While useful, GNP has limitations. It doesn't capture informal economic activities, income inequality, or environmental impact. It can also be affected by inflation, making comparisons across time periods difficult without adjustments. Therefore, GNP should be used in conjunction with other economic indicators for a more complete picture.

9. How is GNP used in international comparisons?

GNP data is used to compare the economic performance of different countries. However, it's essential to use purchasing power parity (PPP) adjustments to account for differences in the cost of living across nations. Direct GNP comparisons without PPP can be misleading.

10. What is the relationship between GNP and a country's standard of living?

GNP per capita (GNP divided by population) is often used as a proxy for a country's standard of living. Higher GNP per capita generally suggests a higher average income and potentially better living conditions. However, it doesn't reflect income distribution or other factors affecting quality of life.

11. How does GNP relate to national income accounting?

GNP is a central component of national income accounting, a system used to track a country's economic activity. It forms part of a broader set of macroeconomic statistics used to assess economic growth, performance, and trends. Understanding GNP is vital for interpreting national income accounts.