Country Profile: American Samoa

American Samoa is an unincorporated territory of the United States located in the South Pacific Ocean, roughly halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand. It consists of five volcanic islands, with a population of about 43,895 as of 2024. The economy primarily relies on tourism, the tuna fishing industry, and government services, while the territory has a unique governance structure that combines local self-government with overarching US administration. The people of American Samoa maintain their rich cultural traditions, notably the Samoan language and customs, despite the challenges posed by economic decline.

Geography

American Samoa is situated in Oceania, comprised of five volcanic islands and two coral atolls, with a total area of 224 sq km. It features a rugged terrain with the highest point at Lata Mountain, reaching 964 m. The islands experience a tropical marine climate with an average annual rainfall of about 3 m and two distinct seasons. Notably, Pago Pago Harbor is recognized for having one of the best natural deepwater harbors in the South Pacific.

• 224 sq km total area, including Rose Atoll and Swains Island.
• 116 km of coastline.
• 12 nm territorial sea and 200 nm exclusive economic zone.
• 85.4% of land covered by forests (2022).
• prone to cyclones from December to March.

People and Society

As of 2024, the population of American Samoa is estimated to be 43,895, with a demographic composition that is predominantly Pacific Islander. The society is characterized by a strong Christian influence, with 98.3% of the population identifying as Christian. Language usage is also significant, with the Samoan language spoken by 87.9% of residents. Urbanization is high, with 87.2% of the population living in urban areas.

• 30 years is the median age of the population (2024).
• 15.7 births/1,000 population birth rate (2024).
• 75.8 years life expectancy at birth (2024).
• 51.5 total dependency ratio (2024).
• 99.8% of the population has access to improved drinking water.

Economy

American Samoa's economy is largely based on tourism, tuna canneries, and government services, yet it has faced economic challenges leading to a sustained decline. The tuna industry is particularly vulnerable, relying on foreign fishing vessels. The territory also anticipates gradual increases in the minimum wage to meet federal standards by 2036.

• $871 million GDP (official exchange rate, 2022).
• $409 million in exports (2022).
• $677 million in imports (2022).
• 1.7% real GDP growth rate (2022).
• Major agricultural products include bananas, coconuts, and vegetables.

Government

American Samoa is an unincorporated, unorganized territory of the United States with its own local self-government. The territory has a republican form of government with a constitution adopted in 1967. Although US nationals by birth, residents do not hold US citizenship, and the territory’s political structure includes a governor, a legislative assembly, and a judicial system.

• Governor Nikolao PULA has been in office since January 3, 2025.
• The population enjoys universal suffrage at 18 years of age.
• Flag Day is celebrated on April 17, marking the territory's history.
• The capital is Pago Pago, located at coordinates 14°16'S, 170°42'W.

Military and Security

Defense of American Samoa is the responsibility of the United States, with no military forces stationed on the islands. The territory relies on US military forces for protection and national security.

Energy

Electricity generation in American Samoa relies heavily on fossil fuels, accounting for 97.1% of total installed capacity as of 2023. The territory consumes approximately 157.697 million kWh of electricity annually. Renewable energy sources, including solar, are slowly being integrated.

• 50,000 kW installed generating capacity (2023).
• 3,000 bbl/day refined petroleum consumption (2023).
• 389,000 metric tonnes of CO2 emissions (2023).

Transportation

American Samoa has three airports and a single port, which is crucial for its transportation and trade. The key port is Pago Pago Harbor, known for its sheltered location and deepwater capabilities.

• 1 port is operational (2024).
• 3 airports are available by 2025.

Communications

The communications infrastructure of American Samoa includes a mix of fixed-line and mobile subscriptions, alongside several television and radio broadcasting stations. Internet access is becoming increasingly available but remains limited.

• 10,000 fixed-line subscriptions (2021).
• 2,250 mobile cellular subscriptions (2009).
• 40.3% of the population uses the Internet (1990).

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	43,895 (2024 est.)
Area	224 sq km	Slightly larger than Washington, D.C.
GDP	$871 million (2022 est.)	At official exchange rate
Energy Consumption	157.697 million kWh (2023 est.)
Birth Rate	15.7 births/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Life Expectancy	75.8 years (2024 est.)
Unemployment Rate	Data not available
Dependency Ratio	51.5 (2024 est.)	Total dependency ratio
Urban Population	87.2% (2023)	Percentage of total population
Climate	Tropical marine	Year-round, little seasonal variation