Government Expenditure: Cabo Verde

Analysis# Cabo Verde Government Expenditure Cabo Verde's government expenditure stood at 25.971% of GDP in 2026, representing a modest decline from its all-time peak of 35.708% in 2010. Since 2004, overall expenditure has decreased 1.1%, though the country remains within a relatively narrow band between 25.701% (2023) and 35.708% (2010). The 2026 figure aligns closely with the recent low point, suggesting a structural shift toward leaner public spending. The most significant turning point occurred between 2010 and the subsequent decade, when expenditure contracted sharply from its crisis-era peak. A notable spike to 34.541% in 2020 reflected pandemic-related fiscal pressures, followed by rapid consolidation through 2023. The recent volatility—climbing to 28.073% in 2025 before declining to 25.971% in 2026—indicates Cabo Verde is maintaining disciplined expenditure control after the temporary pandemic expansion.