Country Profile: Grenada
Grenada is a small Caribbean island nation located north of Trinidad and Tobago, known for its tropical climate and volcanic terrain, including the highest point at Mount Saint Catherine. With an estimated population of 114,621 as of 2024, Grenada is predominantly of African descent and English-speaking, showcasing a rich cultural tapestry influenced by its colonial history. The economy is primarily service-based, heavily reliant on tourism, construction, and agriculture, with nutmeg as a key export. Governed as a parliamentary democracy under a constitutional monarchy, Grenada has a stable political environment that has evolved since achieving independence from the UK in 1974.
Geography
Grenada is located in the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean, with a total area of 344 sq km, approximately twice the size of Washington, D.C. The island features a lush tropical climate, adequate rainfall, and is characterized by volcanic mountains. Grenada has a coastline of 121 km and a territorial sea extending 12 nm.
- Highest Point: Mount Saint Catherine at 840 m
- Lowest Point: Caribbean Sea at 0 m
- Natural Hazards: Prone to hurricanes and volcanic activity
People and Society
Grenada's estimated population of 114,621 consists of primarily individuals of African descent (82.4%) and a mix of other ethnicities. The country enjoys a relatively high life expectancy of 76.3 years with a median age of 35.9 years. English is the official language, and approximately 49.2% of the population identifies as Protestant. Urbanization is moderate, with around 37.1% of the population living in urban areas.
- Birth Rate: 13 births/1,000 population (2025 est.)
- Death Rate: 8.41 deaths/1,000 population (2025 est.)
- Total Fertility Rate: 1.89 children/woman (2025 est.)
Economy
Grenada has a small, service-oriented economy, driven largely by tourism and agricultural exports, primarily nutmeg. The GDP in 2024 is estimated at $2.08 billion (PPP), growing at a rate of 3.7%. Despite a challenging debt situation, emerging blue economy initiatives are fostering new opportunities. Public debt remains high, but the economy is diversifying beyond traditional sectors.
- Real GDP per Capita: $17,700 (2024 est.)
- Exports: $858.9 million (2024 est.)
- Imports: $990.6 million (2024 est.)
Government
Grenada operates as a parliamentary democracy within a constitutional monarchy, with a legal system based on English common law. The head of state is King Charles III, represented by Governor-General Cecile La Grenade. The Prime Minister, Dickon Mitchell, leads the government. The Parliament consists of a bicameral legislature: a House of Representatives and a Senate.
- Independence: 7 February 1974 (from the UK)
- National Holiday: Independence Day, celebrated on February 7
- Voting Age: Universal suffrage at 18 years
Military and Security
Grenada has no regular military forces; its security is maintained by the Royal Grenada Police Force, which includes a Coast Guard. The country participates in the Caribbean Regional Security System for collective defense and regional security cooperation.
- Coast Guard: Part of the Royal Grenada Police Force
- No Regular Military: Security relies on police and paramilitary units
Energy
The energy sector in Grenada is primarily reliant on fossil fuels, accounting for 98.2% of its electricity generation. As of 2023, the installed electricity capacity is 60,000 kW, with less than 2% generated from renewable sources.
- Electricity Access: 94.2% of the population (2022 est.)
- Energy Consumption Per Capita: 41.703 million Btu/person (2023 est.)
Environment
Grenada faces several environmental challenges, including deforestation, coastal erosion, and inadequate waste management. The island's tropical climate and rich biodiversity are under threat from pollution and climate change, prompting participation in various international environmental agreements.
- Forest Area: 52.1% of land (2023 est.)
- Municipal Waste: 29,500 tons generated annually (2024 est.)
- CO2 Emissions: 348,000 metric tonnes (2023 est.)
Transportation
Grenada has a limited transportation infrastructure, with 2 airports and 1 main port located at St. George's. The country’s civil aircraft registration code prefix is J3.
- Merchant Marine: Total of 6 vessels (2023)
- Ports: 1 port with oil terminals
Communications
The telecommunications sector includes multiple mobile and fixed-line operators, with around 74% internet penetration as of 2023. Broadcasting comprises both public and private entities, providing a range of media options.
- Fixed-Line Subscriptions: 17,000 (2022 est.)
- Mobile Cellular Subscriptions: 112,000 (2022 est.)
- Broadband Subscriptions: 35,000 (2022 est.)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 114,621 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 344 sq km | |
| GDP (PPP) | $2.08 billion | 2024 estimate |
| GDP per Capita (PPP) | $17,700 | 2024 estimate |
| Birth Rate | 13 births/1,000 | 2025 estimate |
| Death Rate | 8.41 deaths/1,000 | 2025 estimate |
| Unemployment Rate | 25% | 2018 estimate (population below poverty) |
| Electricity Access | 94.2% | 2022 estimate |
| Municipal Solid Waste Generated | 29,500 tons | 2024 estimate |
| Total Energy Consumption per Capita | 41.703 million Btu | 2023 estimate |
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