Country Profile: Vanuatu
Vanuatu is an archipelago located in the South Pacific Ocean, consisting of around 80 islands, of which about 65 are inhabited. The population, estimated at 318,007 in 2024, predominantly resides in rural areas, with a growing urban presence primarily in Port-Vila and Luganville. Vanuatu's economy is classified as lower-middle income, heavily reliant on subsistence agriculture and tourism, while navigating challenges such as inflation and environmental vulnerability. The government operates as a parliamentary republic, marked by a history of political fragmentation and frequent changes in leadership.
Geography
Vanuatu is positioned about three-quarters of the way from Hawaii to Australia in Oceania. The country covers an area of 12,189 square kilometers, characterized by mountainous volcanic islands and narrow coastal plains. The climate is tropical, influenced by southeast trade winds, with a higher likelihood of tropical cyclones between December and April.
- 12,189 sq km: Total land area
- 2,528 km: Total coastline
- 1,877 m: Highest point - Tabwemasana
- 36.3%: Forest coverage as of 2022
- 15.3%: Agricultural land use as of 2022
- 200 nm: Exclusive economic zone
People and Society
The estimated population of Vanuatu is 318,007, with a diverse ethnic composition, primarily comprising 99% Ni-Vanuatu. The country recognizes over 100 indigenous languages, with Bislama, English, and French serving as official languages. The population exhibits a youthful demographic, with a median age of 24.6 years and significant rural residency.
- 24.6 years: Median age of the population
- 20.8 births/1,000: Birth rate in 2024
- 75.7 years: Life expectancy at birth in 2024
- 88%: Literacy rate as of 2023
- 31.1%: Population aged 0-14 years
- 1.55%: Estimated population growth rate in 2024
Economy
Vanuatu's economy is primarily agricultural and tourism-focused, grappling with post-pandemic recovery and environmental challenges. The real GDP is projected to be approximately $1.039 billion in 2024, with a modest growth rate expected. Inflation has been significant, impacting consumer prices and living conditions.
- $1.039 billion: Estimated real GDP for 2024
- 5.1%: Unemployment rate in 2024
- 24.9%: Contribution of agriculture to GDP in 2022
- 12.9%: Remittances as a share of GDP in 2023
- $3,200: Real GDP per capita in 2024
- $579.347 million: Imports in 2022
Government
Vanuatu operates as a parliamentary republic with a mixed legal system. The capital, Port Vila, is home to its government structure, which includes a President, currently Nikenike Vurobaravu, and a Prime Minister, Jotham Napat. The country gained independence from France and the UK on July 30, 1980.
- 52: Seats in the unicameral Parliament
- 18 years: Voting age for suffrage
- 2027: Expected date for the next presidential election
- 6: Provinces (Malampa, Penama, Sanma, Shefa, Tafea, Torba)
- 4.4%: Health expenditure as a percentage of GDP in 2021
Military and Security
Vanuatu does not maintain regular military forces but relies on the Vanuatu Police Force, which includes a paramilitary unit. The country has established international ties, particularly through agreements with the United States for maritime law enforcement operations.
- 0: Regular military forces
- 97%: Urban electrification rate as of 2022
- 5%: Total installed electricity capacity from hydroelectric sources in 2023
Energy
Vanuatu's energy sector is characterized by a reliance on fossil fuels for electricity generation, contributing to significant carbon emissions. The country is working toward enhancing its electric grid, with 70% of the population having access to electricity as of 2022.
- 70%: Total electrification of the population
- 39,000 kW: Installed electricity generating capacity in 2023
- 74.9%: Share of fossil fuels in total installed capacity
- 292,000 metric tonnes: Total CO2 emissions in 2023
Environment
Vanuatu faces several environmental challenges, including water pollution, deforestation, and inadequate sanitation. Despite these issues, the country is a signatory to various international environmental agreements aimed at promoting biodiversity and climate change mitigation.
- 36.3%: Forest area as of 2022
- 10 billion cubic meters: Total renewable water resources in 2020
- 37%: Municipal solid waste recycled in 2013
Transportation
Vanuatu's transportation infrastructure includes numerous airports and a merchant marine fleet. The country operates 31 airports, facilitating both domestic and international travel, while its ports are vital for trade and shipping.
- 31: Total airports as of 2025
- 338: Total merchant marine vessels in 2023
- 3: Total ports, including oil terminals
Communications
The communication sector in Vanuatu features a mix of traditional media and modern telecommunication services. While fixed-line subscriptions remain limited, mobile cellular access has expanded significantly in recent years.
- 256,000: Mobile cellular subscriptions in 2022
- 46%: Percentage of the population with internet access as of 2023
- 3,000: Fixed-line telephone subscriptions in 2022
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 318,007 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 12,189 sq km | Total land area |
| GDP (PPP) | $1.039 billion | 2024 estimate |
| Energy Consumption per Capita | 12.934 million Btu | 2023 estimate |
| Birth Rate | 20.8 births/1,000 | 2024 estimate |
| Unemployment Rate | 5.1% | 2024 estimate |
| Life Expectancy | 75.7 years | 2024 estimate |
| Literacy Rate | 88% | 2023 estimate |
| Electrification Rate | 70% | 2022 estimate |
| Inflation Rate | 11.2% | 2023 estimate |
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