Country Profile: Dominica

Dominica, known as "The Nature Island of the Caribbean," is characterized by its rugged volcanic terrain and a tropical climate. It has a population of approximately 74,661, with the majority living along its coast. The economy is primarily agrarian, heavily reliant on banana exports, and is increasingly diversifying into ecotourism and other sectors. Governed as a parliamentary republic, Dominica gained independence from the UK in 1978 and has since focused on improving governance and disaster recovery efforts, particularly following the devastation of Hurricane Maria in 2017.

Geography

Dominica is an island located in the Caribbean Sea, positioned between Puerto Rico and Trinidad and Tobago. It encompasses an area of 751 square kilometers and is characterized by its volcanic mountains and lush landscapes, earning it the title of "Nature Island." The island's rugged terrain has a highest point at Morne Diablotins, which rises 1,447 meters above sea level.

33.3% of the land is used for agriculture as of 2023.
The island has 148 km of coastline and 0 km of land boundaries.
Dominica's climate is tropical, moderated by northeast trade winds, and experiences heavy rainfall.
76.6% of the land is covered by forests, making it one of the most forested islands in the Caribbean.
The volcanic activity is a significant feature, with five volcanoes located on the island.

People and Society

The population of Dominica is approximately 74,661, with a diverse ethnic composition, predominantly of African descent (84.5%). English is the official language, alongside French patois. The majority of the population adheres to Roman Catholicism, with significant Protestant communities.

The median age is 37.5 years, as of 2025.
20.7% of the population is aged 0-14 years.
72% of the population is urbanized (2023).
Life expectancy at birth is approximately 78.7 years as of 2024.
The country has a dependency ratio of 52.3 (2024).

Economy

Dominica's economy is primarily based on agriculture, with banana exports being a key sector. The nation is a member of the Eastern Caribbean Central Union (ECCU) and is actively pursuing growth in ecotourism and renewable energy. The GDP in purchasing power parity was estimated at $1.241 billion in 2024.

56.9% of the GDP comes from the services sector (2024).
The real GDP growth rate for 2024 is projected at 2.1%.
Agricultural products include taro, grapefruits, bananas, and sugarcane (2023).
Remittances accounted for 5.6% of GDP in 2024.
Inflation rate is expected to be 2.6% in 2024.

Government

Dominica operates as a parliamentary republic with a President serving as the head of state and a Prime Minister as the head of government. The legal system is based on English common law, and the country is divided into 10 administrative parishes.

The current President is Sylvanie Burton, inaugurated on 2 October 2023.
The legislative body, the House of Assembly, consists of 32 members.
Universal suffrage is granted to citizens aged 18 and older.
Dominica celebrated its independence from the UK on 3 November 1978.
The most recent general election occurred on 27 September 2023.

Military and Security

Dominica does not maintain a regular military force, with the Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force responsible for national security. The nation is part of the Caribbean Regional Security System, which establishes mutual security protocols among member states.

The Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force operates under the Ministry of National Security.
Membership in the Caribbean Regional Security System (RSS) since 1982 enhances collaborative security efforts.
There are no regular military forces in the country.

Energy

Dominica is focused on improving its energy sector, with 100% electrification reported in 2022. The installed electricity generation capacity relies heavily on fossil fuels while also incorporating renewable sources.

84.3% of generating capacity is from fossil fuels (2023).
Total electricity consumption was approximately 145.827 million kWh in 2023.
The installed generating capacity is 41,000 kW (2023).
Energy consumption per capita reached 36.395 million Btu in 2023.

Environment

Dominica faces environmental challenges, including pollution from agrochemicals and untreated sewage. However, it is committed to numerous international environmental agreements focusing on biodiversity and climate change.

The country has 76.6% of its area covered by forests (2023).
13,200 tons of municipal solid waste generated annually (2024).
12.6% of municipal solid waste is recycled (2022).
Total renewable water resources stand at 200 million cubic meters (2022).

Transportation

Transportation in Dominica is facilitated by a small network of ports and a couple of airports, reflecting its geographical landscape and economic activity.

There are 2 airports in the country (2025).
The merchant marine fleet consists of 77 vessels (2023).
Key ports include Roseau and Portsmouth, with a total of 2 ports operating.

Communications

Dominica has a growing telecommunications infrastructure, with a substantial percentage of the population using mobile and internet services.

84% of the population are internet users (2023).
There were 56,929 mobile subscriptions as of 2022.
Fixed-line telephone subscriptions totaled 7,000 (2021).

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	74,661	Estimated 2024
Area	751 sq km
GDP (PPP)	$1.241 billion	Estimated 2024
Life Expectancy	78.7 years	Estimated 2024
Inflation Rate	2.6%	Estimated 2024
Urban Population	72%	Of total population (2023)
Dependency Ratio	52.3	Estimated 2024
Electricity Access	100%	Estimated 2022
Total Exports	$212.753 million	Estimated 2024
Total Imports	$387.532 million	Estimated 2024