Country Profile: Singapore
Singapore, a vibrant city-state located in Southeast Asia, boasts a unique blend of rich history and modern development. This tropical island nation has transformed from a Malay trading port in the 14th century to a highly prosperous global financial hub today. With a population of over six million people, Singapore is characterized by its multicultural society consisting primarily of Chinese, Malay, and Indian ethnicities. Governed as a parliamentary republic, it has maintained stability and economic growth, largely attributed to strong governmental policies and a competitive economy.
Geography
Singapore is situated in Southeastern Asia, strategically positioned between Malaysia and Indonesia. The total land area is approximately 719 sq km, which includes 709.2 sq km of land and 10 sq km of water, making it slightly larger than Washington, D.C. The nation is low-lying with a gently undulating central plateau, with its highest point being Bukit Timah at 166 m. It has a coastline of 193 km and no land borders, contributing to its maritime trading significance.
- 0 km land boundaries
- 3 nm territorial sea limit
- Tropical climate with two distinct monsoon seasons
- 60+ islands comprising the nation
- 21.2% of land covered by forests (2022)
People and Society
As of 2024, Singapore’s population is estimated at 6,028,459, with a nearly equal gender distribution. The society is highly diverse, featuring a mix of ethnic groups, predominantly Chinese (74.2%), followed by Malays (13.7%), Indians (8.9%), and other communities (3.2%). English, Mandarin, Malay, and Tamil are the official languages, reflecting the country's multicultural framework. The urbanization rate stands at 100%, highlighting a fully urban society.
- 39.4 years median age (2024)
- 86.7 years life expectancy (2024)
- 98% literacy rate (2021)
- 14.6% of the population is aged 0-14 years (2024)
- 8.8 births per 1,000 population (2024)
Economy
Singapore possesses a high-income, service-based economy that serves as a global financial center. As of 2024, its real GDP (PPP) is projected at $800.304 billion, with a per capita GDP of $132,600. The economy is supported by strong public investments in health, education, and infrastructure, although it faces challenges from an aging population. The unemployment rate for 2024 is estimated at 3.2%, reflecting a resilient job market.
- 73% of GDP derived from services (2024)
- 4.4% projected real GDP growth rate (2024)
- 21.4% of GDP from industry (2024)
- 178.8% exports of goods and services relative to GDP (2024)
- $96.015 billion current account surplus (2024)
Government
The Republic of Singapore operates as a parliamentary republic with a unicameral legislature known as the Parliament. The country's governance is marked by the People's Action Party, which has dominated elections since 1959. The President of Singapore, elected for a six-year term, serves as the head of state, while the Prime Minister is the head of government. The most recent presidential election occurred on September 1, 2023.
- 108 seats in Parliament, with 32.3% occupied by women
- Citizenship by descent only; no dual citizenship allowed
- 21 years of age for universal suffrage
- Legal system based on English common law
- National Day commemorates independence on August 9, 1965
Military and Security
The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) encompasses the Army, Navy, and Air Force, supported by a robust police force. Military expenditures are consistently around 3% of GDP. The nation mandates compulsory military service for men aged 18-21, while maintaining a voluntary service option for women. Singapore actively engages in international military collaborations and has permanent training detachments overseas.
- Approximately 55,000 active-duty personnel (2025)
- SAF established in 1965
- Participates in the Five Powers Defense Arrangements
- 24-month conscript service obligation
- Maintains training detachments in Australia, France, and the US (2025)
Energy
Singapore has achieved 100% electrification of its population. Its energy generation heavily relies on fossil fuels, representing 94.8% of installed capacity, while it is increasingly integrating renewable sources like solar energy. The country consumes over 1.5 million bbl/day of refined petroleum and imports significant amounts of natural gas.
- 13.134 billion cubic meters of natural gas consumed (2023)
- 56.672 billion kWh of electricity consumed (2023)
- 238.962 million metric tonnes of CO2 emissions (2023)
Environment
Singapore faces several environmental challenges, including water and air pollution, limited freshwater resources, and waste disposal issues due to its small land area. It is committed to international environmental agreements aimed at biodiversity and climate change. The urban landscape is predominantly developed, yet the country maintains a noteworthy 21.2% forest cover.
- 600 million cubic meters of total renewable water resources (2020)
- 61% of municipal waste recycled (2015)
- 0.9% of land used for agriculture (2022)
Transportation
Singapore boasts a well-developed transportation infrastructure, featuring 9 airports and a major merchant marine fleet of 3,202 vessels. The country operates a sophisticated public transportation network that facilitates efficient movement within the densely populated urban area.
- 5 total ports, including key ones like Jurong Island and Pulau Bukom
- 1.912 million fixed-line telephone subscriptions (2023)
- 9.65 million mobile cellular subscriptions (2023)
Communications
Singapore has a high level of connectivity, with 94% of its population being internet users as of 2023. The communications infrastructure is advanced, with state-controlled broadcast media and a variety of telecommunications services available.
- 1.57 million fixed broadband subscriptions (2023)
- 33 fixed-line subscriptions per 100 inhabitants (2023)
- 156 mobile subscriptions per 100 inhabitants (2022)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 6,028,459 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 719 sq km | Total land area |
| GDP (PPP) | $800.304 billion | 2024 estimate |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.2% | 2024 estimate |
| Life Expectancy | 86.7 years | 2024 estimate |
| Literacy Rate | 98% | 2021 estimate |
| Current Account Balance | $96.015 billion | 2024 estimate |
| Electricity Access | 100% | 2022 estimate |
| Total Fertility Rate | 1.17 children/woman | 2024 estimate |
| Forest Coverage | 21.2% | 2022 estimate |
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