5 Weapon Importing Countries in the World

In this article, we are going to look at the 5 weapon importing countries in the world. If you want to read more about the top weapon importing countries in the world and check out our detailed analysis of the small arms and light weapons industry, you can go to 12 Weapon Importing Countries in the World.

5. China

2018–2022 Share Of Global Arms Imports: 4.6%

China ranks among the largest countries by area as well as the most populated countries in the world. While being the main supplier for some of the weapon importing countries, China also ranks among the top 5 weapon importing countries in the world. During 2018-2022, China received 4.6% of the global arms imports. During this time, Russia supplied the largest amount of arms to China, contributing 83% to China’s total imported arms.

4. Australia

2018–2022 Share Of Global Arms Imports: 4.7%

Australia comprises the mainland of the Australian continent and other smaller islands. It is the sixth largest country in the world. According to the most recent reported data, Australia had a 4.7% share in the global arms imports during 2018-2022. During this period, the US was the main supplier, supplying around 73% of Australia’s total arms imports.

3. Qatar

2018–2022 Share Of Global Arms Imports: 6.4%

Qatar is a country in the Middle East that has a land border with Saudi Arabia. Qatar spends heavily on its military and defense. Qatar received 6.4% of the total global arms imports between 2018-2022 and ranks among the top 3 weapon importing countries in the world. During 2018-2022, the US was its largest arms supplier with a 42% share of Qatar’s total imported arms.

2. Saudi Arabia

2018–2022 Share Of Global Arms Imports: 9.6%

Saudi Arabia is the largest country in the Middle East and it ranks second on our list of the top weapon importing countries in the world. Saudi Arabia has been in a conflict with Iran since the 1970’s thus increasing the need for a strong defense force. According to the most recent reported data, Saudi Arabia received 9.6% of the world’s arms imports between 2018-2022. During this period, the US was the main supplier, supplying around 78% of Saudi Arabia’s total arms imports.

1. India

2018–2022 Share Of Global Arms Imports: 11%

India tops our list of the 12 weapon importing countries in the world. India received 11% of the world’s total arms imports in 2018-2022. As India’s main supplier, Russia supplied 45% of India’s total arms imports during this time. India’s relations with its neighbors Pakistan and China have been troublesome, and the issue with Kashmir fuels the need for a strong defense and military.

You can also take a look at 20 Countries with the Cheapest Gas Prices and 25 Most Productive Countries Per Capita.