Country Profile: Fiji
Fiji is an archipelagic nation in the South Pacific Ocean, consisting of 332 islands, of which about 110 are inhabited. The population is approximately 951,611, with a vibrant cultural mix primarily of iTaukei (indigenous Fijians) and Indo-Fijians. The economy is largely based on tourism and agriculture, while the government operates as a parliamentary republic. Fiji faces environmental challenges, including climate vulnerability and limited natural resources.
Geography
Fiji is located in Oceania, roughly two-thirds of the way between Hawaii and New Zealand, with a total land area of 18,274 sq km, slightly smaller than New Jersey. The country's terrain is predominantly mountainous, formed from volcanic activity, and it has a coastline of 1,129 km. The climate is tropical marine, featuring slight seasonal temperature variations.
- 332 islands, with 110 inhabited
- 70% of the population resides on Viti Levu
- 12 nm territorial sea
- Highest point: Tomanivi at 1,324 m
People and Society
Fiji's estimated population of 951,611 in 2024 is ethnically diverse, including 56.8% iTaukei and 37.5% Indo-Fijians. The official languages are English, iTaukei, and Fiji Hindi. The country has a median age of 32 years and a literacy rate of 92.4% for females. Urbanization is notable, with 58.7% of the population living in urban areas.
- Population growth rate: 0.38% (2025 est.)
- Youth dependency ratio: 37.1 (2024 est.)
- Life expectancy: 74.8 years (2024 est.)
- Birth rate: 15.63 births/1,000 (2025 est.)
Economy
The Fijian economy is classified as upper-middle income and largely tourism-based, with a real GDP of $13.1 billion (2024 est.). The unemployment rate stands at 4.4% (2024 est.), reflecting a recovery in the tourism sector post-pandemic. The agricultural sector contributes 8.4% to GDP, with significant products like sugarcane and coconuts.
- Real GDP per capita: $14,100 (2024 est.)
- Inflation rate: 4.5% (2024 est.)
- Labor force: 387,800 (2024 est.)
- Exports: $2.376 billion (2022 est.)
Government
Fiji operates as a parliamentary republic with the President as the head of state and the Prime Minister as the head of government. The current Prime Minister is Sitiveni Ligamamada Rabuka, while the President is Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu. The constitution was last revised in 2013, and various political parties participate in the legislative process.
- Independence: 10 October 1970
- Electoral system: Proportional representation
- Number of legislative seats: 55
- Universal suffrage age: 18 years
Military and Security
The Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) comprise land and naval forces, with about 4,000 active personnel. Military expenditures are around 1.4% of GDP (2024 est.). Fiji participates in international peacekeeping missions and has a security relationship with the US, including a "shiprider" agreement for maritime law enforcement.
- Military deployments: 170 in Egypt, 160 in Iraq
- Military service age: 18-25 for voluntary service
- Military equipment: Lightly armed, with support from Australia, China, and the US
Energy
Fiji boasts an electrification rate of 92% (2022 est.), with a significant energy generation capacity of 427,000 kW (2023 est.). The energy mix includes hydroelectric power, fossil fuels, and biomass.
- Electricity consumption: 1.048 billion kWh (2023 est.)
- Hydroelectric power: 52.3% of energy capacity (2023 est.)
- Total energy consumption per capita: 25.375 million Btu/person (2023 est.)
Environment
Fiji faces several environmental challenges, including air pollution, deforestation, and vulnerability to climate change. The country is a signatory to numerous international environmental agreements aimed at protecting biodiversity and addressing climate issues.
- Forest cover: 61.7% (2023 est.)
- Carbon dioxide emissions: 1.432 million metric tonnes (2023 est.)
- Municipal solid waste generated: 189,400 tons (2024 est.)
Transportation
Fiji has a developing transportation network, featuring 26 airports and a merchant marine fleet of 74 vessels. The railway system, primarily used for sugarcane transport, spans 597 km.
- Total ports: 5 (2024)
- Heliports: 2 (2025)
- Railways: 597 km (2008)
Communications
Fiji has a well-established communication network, with approximately 79% of the population using the internet. Mobile cellular subscriptions are notably high at 5.33 million (2024).
- Fixed phone subscriptions: 49,000 (2021 est.)
- Broadband subscriptions: 23,000 (2022 est.)
- Mobile subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 574 (2024)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 951,611 | 2024 est. |
| Area | 18,274 sq km | Total land area |
| GDP | $13.1 billion | Real GDP (PPP) 2024 est. |
| Unemployment | 4.4% | 2024 est. |
| Birth Rate | 15.63 births/1,000 population | 2025 est. |
| Life Expectancy | 74.8 years | 2024 est. |
| Electricity Access | 92% | 2022 est. |
| Carbon Dioxide Emissions | 1.432 million metric tonnes | 2023 est. |
| Literacy Rate (female) | 92.4% | 2021 est. |
| Military Strength | ~4,000 active personnel | 2025 est. |
Explore more about this country: