Country Profile: Wallis and Futuna
Wallis and Futuna, a French overseas collectivity located in the South Pacific Ocean, consists of three main islands: Wallis, Futuna, and Alofi, surrounded by 20 islets. With a population of approximately 15,998, the territory is characterized by its Polynesian heritage and a predominantly Roman Catholic faith. The economy is reliant on agriculture, fishing, and French subsidies, alongside a significant presence of remittances from the Wallisian and Futunan community in New Caledonia. Governed as a parliamentary democracy, Wallis and Futuna maintains a unique cultural identity while being an integral part of France.
Geography
Wallis and Futuna is situated in Oceania, approximately two-thirds of the distance from Hawaii to New Zealand. The islands cover a total area of 142 square kilometers and possess a coastline of 129 kilometers. The climate is tropical, with a hot, rainy season from November to April and a cooler, dry season from May to October.
- Average temperature: 26.6°C
- Highest point: Mont Singavi at 522 m
- Land use: 42.3% agricultural land (2023)
- Natural hazards: cyclones and tsunamis
People and Society
The islands have a population of about 15,998, primarily composed of Polynesian ethnic groups. The official language is French, although indigenous languages, Wallisian and Futunian, are also spoken. The society is predominantly Roman Catholic, with a high literacy rate of 99.8% (2023).
- Median age: 36.9 years (2025)
- Life expectancy: 81.1 years (2024)
- Birth rate: 11.63 births per 1,000 population (2025)
- Urban population: 0% of total population (2023)
Economy
Wallis and Futuna's economy is classified as lower-middle-income and heavily reliant on French support, with a focus on agriculture and fishing industries. The territory imports most of its goods while securing fishing licenses to Japan and South Korea, and relies on remittances from residents in New Caledonia.
- GDP: Not provided in the source
- Export partners: Denmark 35%, Sweden 14% (2023)
- Import partners: Fiji 35%, France 32% (2023)
- Major agricultural products: copra, handicrafts, and fish
Government
Wallis and Futuna operates under a parliamentary democracy and is an overseas collectivity of France. The capital is Mata-Utu, located on Wallis Island. The political structure includes a Territorial Assembly, which is responsible for local governance, while France manages defense and foreign affairs.
- Executive branch head: President Emmanuel Macron (since 2017)
- Voting age: 18 years (universal suffrage)
- Number of seats in the Territorial Assembly: 20
- Latest election: 20 March 2022
Military and Security
The military defense of Wallis and Futuna is the responsibility of France, ensuring the islands' security through its military presence in the region.
Energy
Not specifically covered in the provided sections.
Environment
Wallis and Futuna faces environmental challenges, including deforestation due to reliance on wood for fuel and soil erosion. Small portions of the original forests remain, and soil fertility issues are prevalent on the islands.
- Climate: Tropical, with annual rainfall of 250-300 cm
- Land use: 74.9% forest (2023)
- Dependency on natural resources: Extremely limited
Transportation
The territory has a modest transportation infrastructure, including 2 airports and a small merchant marine fleet.
- Ports: 1 very small port (Mata-Utu)
- Airports: 2 (2025)
Communications
Telecommunication services include both fixed and mobile lines, with a notable penetration of mobile cellular subscriptions.
- Mobile subscriptions: 12,200 (107 per 100 inhabitants in 2023)
- Internet users: 45.8% of the population (2021)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 15,998 | Estimated for 2025 |
| Area | 142 sq km | Total land area |
| Birth Rate | 11.63 births/1,000 population | Estimated for 2025 |
| Life Expectancy | 81.1 years | Estimated for 2024 |
| Literacy Rate | 99.8% | Estimated for 2023 |
| Dependency Ratio | 48.7 | Estimated for 2025 |
| Urban Population | 0% | As of 2023 |
| Agriculture Land Use | 42.3% | Estimated for 2023 |
| Deforestation Issues | Present | Due to fuel source reliance |
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