Country Profile: Tonga
Tonga is an archipelago located in the South Pacific Ocean, comprising approximately 171 islands, of which only 45 are inhabited. The population is around 104,889, primarily of Tongan ethnicity, with a rich blend of cultural heritage. The economy is categorized as upper middle-income, heavily reliant on agriculture, tourism, and remittances from a large diaspora. Tonga operates as a constitutional monarchy, with a parliamentary system that has undergone significant reforms towards democratization in recent years.
Geography
Tonga's geographical position is about two-thirds of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand, characterized by mostly flat islands formed from uplifted coral and volcanic rock. The total land area measures 747 square kilometers, with a coastline of 419 kilometers and extensive maritime claims, including a 200 nautical mile exclusive economic zone.
- 747 sq km: Total area of Tonga
- 419 km: Total coastline
- 200 nm: Exclusive economic zone
- 48.6%: Land used for agriculture as of 2022
- 1,046 m: Highest point at Kao Volcano
- 30: Total number of inhabited islands
People and Society
Tonga has a diverse population of approximately 104,889, with a high percentage identifying as Tongan (96.5%). The predominant language is Tongan, spoken by 85% of the population. The society emphasizes cultural traditions and familial connections, reflected in various demographic indicators such as a median age of 25.9 years and a life expectancy of 78 years.
- 104,889: Total estimated population in 2024
- 29.3%: Population aged 0-14 years
- 63.2%: Population aged 15-64 years
- 91.1%: Literacy rate as of 2019
- 78 years: Life expectancy at birth in 2024
- 19.7: Birth rate per 1,000 population in 2024
- 6.3%: Health expenditure as a percentage of GDP in 2021
Economy
Tonga's economy is upper middle-income, characterized by significant reliance on remittances, tourism, and agriculture. Key agricultural products include coconuts and root vegetables. The current GDP stands at approximately $740 million with a real GDP growth rate of 2.1% expected for 2023. The country has also seen a spike in its role as a fish exporter and as a hub for Chinese investments.
- $740 million: Real GDP (PPP) estimated for 2023
- 2.1%: Real GDP growth rate for 2023
- 50.2%: Contribution of services to GDP in 2023
- 34,800: Estimated labor force in 2024
- 2.2%: Unemployment rate for 2024
- 50%: Remittances as a percentage of GDP in 2023
- $119.511 million: Exports estimated for 2024
Government
Tonga is governed as a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system. The administrative structure includes various divisions, with elections leading to a mix of directly and indirectly elected representatives. The most recent parliamentary elections were held in December 2024, contributing to the ongoing political evolution within the country.
- 4 June 1970: Independence date from the UK
- 30: Number of seats in the Legislative Assembly
- 21 years: Minimum voting age
- 10%: Percentage of women in the legislative chamber
- $215 million: Estimated government revenues in 2020
- 1.8%: Defense spending as a percentage of GDP for 2024
Military and Security
Tonga’s defense force, known as His Majesty's Armed Forces, includes various branches such as the Navy and Army. The country commits approximately 1.8% of its GDP to military expenditures, with a focus on sovereignty, maritime security, and humanitarian assistance.
- 600: Active military personnel as of 2025
- 1.8%: Military budget as a percentage of GDP for 2024
- 18-25: Age range for voluntary military service
- 1: Number of container ships in the merchant marine
- 3: Total military branches in Tonga
Energy
The total electrification rate in Tonga is 100%, with a primary reliance on fossil fuels for electricity generation. The installed capacity for electricity generation is 34,000 kW, and the country is gradually integrating renewable energy sources.
- 100%: Electrification rate of the population as of 2022
- 67.01 million kWh: Electricity consumption in 2023
- 89%: Percentage of electricity from fossil fuels
- 1,000 bbl/day: Refined petroleum consumption in 2023
Environment
Tonga faces several environmental challenges, including deforestation, soil exhaustion, and pollution impacting its water resources and marine life. The islands are subject to the tropical climate, with an emphasis on sustainability and biodiversity in international agreements.
- 48.6%: Agricultural land use as of 2022
- 99.6%: Access to improved drinking water for the total population
- 0 cubic meters: Total renewable water resources available as of 2017
- 7.52: Particulate matter emissions in micrograms per cubic meter (2019)
Transportation
Tonga has infrastructure that includes civil and commercial air services along with a modest merchant marine fleet. There are 6 airports and multiple small ports facilitating trade and transportation.
- 6: Total number of airports expected by 2025
- 29: Total vessels in the merchant marine fleet as of 2023
- 3: Total ports in the country
Communications
The telecommunications sector in Tonga is developing, with a growing number of mobile and internet subscriptions. The internet penetration rate is approximately 59%, and there are efforts to enhance broadband access.
- 64,000: Mobile cellular subscriptions as of 2021
- 59%: Percentage of population using the internet (2023)
- 11,000: Fixed line telephone subscriptions as of 2021
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 104,889 | Estimated for 2024 |
| Area | 747 sq km | Total land area |
| GDP | $740 million | Real GDP (PPP) estimated for 2023 |
| Energy Consumption | 67.01 million kWh | Electricity consumption in 2023 |
| Birth Rate | 19.7 births/1,000 | Birth rate projected for 2024 |
| Unemployment | 2.2% | Unemployment rate estimated for 2024 |
| Life Expectancy | 78 years | Estimated for 2024 |
| Literacy Rate | 91.1% | As of 2019 |
| Agricultural Land Usage | 48.6% | Estimated for 2022 |
| Military Expenditure | 1.8% | Percentage of GDP for 2024 |
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