Country Profile: Niue
Niue is a small island nation located in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Tonga. With a population of approximately 1,815, it has a unique governance structure as a self-governing territory in free association with New Zealand, which handles its defense and foreign affairs. The economy is classified as upper-middle-income, and is heavily reliant on subsistence farming, small-scale agriculture, and a rebound in tourism. Niue's rich cultural history is reflected in its traditions and the influence of its Polynesian ancestors.
Geography
Niue is one of the world's largest coral islands, characterized by steep limestone cliffs along its coast and a central plateau. The island has a total area of 260 sq km, making it about 1.5 times the size of Washington, D.C. Niue experiences a tropical climate, modified by southeast trade winds, and has a coastline measuring 64 km. The sole significant source of fresh water presents challenges for agriculture and settlements.
- Geographic coordinates: 19°02′ S, 169°52′ W
- Highest point: 80 m above sea level
- Natural hazards: tropical cyclones
People and Society
As of 2024, Niue's population is estimated at 1,815, with a slight majority of females. The Niuean culture is primarily Polynesian, influenced heavily by Samoan and Tongan customs. About 65.4% of the population identify as Niuean, with the official languages being Niuean and English. The country upholds a high level of access to drinking water and sanitation, with 97% of the population having access to improved drinking water sources.
- Life expectancy: 71.8 years (male), 75.7 years (female)
- Urban population: 48.2% of total population (2023)
- Obesity prevalence: 50% among adults (2016)
Economy
Niue's economy is classified as upper-middle-income, and it depends on sustainable resource management due to its environmentally fragile landscape. Agriculture plays a critical role, with products including coconuts, taro, and tropical fruits. The island's recent post-pandemic tourism rebound is vital for economic growth. Exports are primarily directed toward the USA, making up 54% of total exports.
- Real GDP (PPP): $18.7 million (2021)
- GDP per capita: $11,100 (2021)
- Major industries: handicrafts and food processing
Government
Niue operates as a parliamentary democracy and has been self-governing in free association with New Zealand since 1974. The Prime Minister, currently Dalton Tagelagi, is indirectly elected for a three-year term. Niue's legal system is based on English common law, and it has a unicameral legislature with 20 seats in the Niue Assembly.
- Capital: Alofi
- Suffrage: universal at age 18
- Latest election date: May 8, 2023
Military and Security
Niue maintains no regular military forces, relying instead on its Police Department for internal security. Under the Niue Constitution Act of 1974, New Zealand is responsible for defense and security, providing assistance if requested by the Niue government.
Energy
The energy sector is heavily reliant on fossil fuels, with 100% of electricity generation from this source. In 2023, electricity consumption reached 3 million kWh, while the installed generating capacity was 3,000 kW.
- Refined petroleum consumption: 61 barrels per day (2023)
- Carbon dioxide emissions: 9,000 metric tonnes (2023)
Environment
Niue is increasingly attentive to environmental conservation, grappling with soil fertility loss due to traditional agricultural practices. The island is a party to several international environmental agreements, including the Paris Agreement on climate change.
- Land use:
- Agricultural land: 18.5% (2022)
- Forest: 72.7% (2022)
- Air pollutants: Particulate matter emissions of 6.74 micrograms per cubic meter (2019)
Transportation
Niue has one airport and a small merchant marine fleet composed of 70 vessels. Alofi serves as the key port, supporting the island's transportation needs despite its limited size.
- Total ports: 1 (2024)
- Airports: 1 (2025)
Communications
The communications infrastructure in Niue includes a state-owned TV and radio station, with about 80% of the population using the internet. The fixed-line telephone subscriptions were around 1,000 as of 2021.
- Internet country code: .nu
- Telephones - fixed lines: 52 subscriptions per 100 inhabitants (2021)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,815 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 260 sq km | |
| GDP (PPP) | $18.7 million | 2021 estimate |
| GDP per capita | $11,100 | 2021 estimate |
| Electricity consumption | 3 million kWh | 2023 |
| Refined petroleum consumption | 61 bbl/day | 2023 estimate |
| Life expectancy (male) | 71.8 years | 2016 |
| Life expectancy (female) | 75.7 years | 2016 |
| Urban population | 48.2% | 2023 |
| Obesity rate | 50% | 2016 |
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