In a remarkable economic shift, California has officially overtaken Japan to become the fourth largest economy worldwide, following new data from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
California Overtakes Japan: Now the Fourth Largest Economy in the World

California Overtakes Japan: Now the Fourth Largest Economy in the World
California’s economy surpasses Japan, becoming a dominant global player.
California's gross domestic product (GDP) has surged to $4.10 trillion, eclipsing Japan's economic output, which stands at $4.01 trillion. This impressive milestone positions California behind only the United States as a whole, China, and Germany in global economic ranking.
Governor Gavin Newsom celebrated this achievement, stating, “California isn't just keeping pace with the world - we're setting the pace.” The upward trajectory of California's economy is attributed to its significant contributions in manufacturing, agriculture, technology, and entertainment. The state boasts the largest share of manufacturing and agricultural production in the nation, along with being home to pivotal innovations in technology.
Amid this economic triumph, Governor Newsom has publicly criticized President Donald Trump's tariff policies, which have sparked uncertainty in global markets. California's economy, often referred to as the economic engine of the U.S., is seen by Newsom as being endangered by these federal actions. He expressed concern, stating, “While we celebrate this success, we recognize that our progress is threatened by the reckless tariff policies of the current federal administration."
Trump’s administration has implemented a series of tariffs that escalate tension with countries such as China and have broader implications for the global economy. California's new economic status comes as Japan grapples with its own challenges, including a declining and aging workforce that strains its economic prospects. The IMF recently revised its growth forecast for Japan, heightening concerns about its economic trajectory.
In summary, as California celebrates its newfound status in the global economic landscape, questions linger about the future implications of trade policies and ongoing tensions between economic powerhouses.
Governor Gavin Newsom celebrated this achievement, stating, “California isn't just keeping pace with the world - we're setting the pace.” The upward trajectory of California's economy is attributed to its significant contributions in manufacturing, agriculture, technology, and entertainment. The state boasts the largest share of manufacturing and agricultural production in the nation, along with being home to pivotal innovations in technology.
Amid this economic triumph, Governor Newsom has publicly criticized President Donald Trump's tariff policies, which have sparked uncertainty in global markets. California's economy, often referred to as the economic engine of the U.S., is seen by Newsom as being endangered by these federal actions. He expressed concern, stating, “While we celebrate this success, we recognize that our progress is threatened by the reckless tariff policies of the current federal administration."
Trump’s administration has implemented a series of tariffs that escalate tension with countries such as China and have broader implications for the global economy. California's new economic status comes as Japan grapples with its own challenges, including a declining and aging workforce that strains its economic prospects. The IMF recently revised its growth forecast for Japan, heightening concerns about its economic trajectory.
In summary, as California celebrates its newfound status in the global economic landscape, questions linger about the future implications of trade policies and ongoing tensions between economic powerhouses.