Country Profile: Saint Pierre and Miquelon

Saint Pierre and Miquelon, located in the North Atlantic Ocean south of Newfoundland, are the last remnants of France's expansive North American territory. As an overseas collectivity of France since 2003, the islands feature a modest population of approximately 5,070, primarily concentrated on Saint Pierre Island. The economy relies heavily on fishing exports, supported by the French government, while the local governance operates as a parliamentary democracy.

Geography

Saint Pierre and Miquelon consist of a group of islands with a total area of 242 square kilometers. The terrain is predominantly barren rock with a cold, wet climate characterized by frequent mist and fog. Although mostly lacking in vegetation, the territory boasts rich fishing resources and is surrounded by a 12 nautical mile territorial sea and a 200 nautical mile exclusive economic zone.

• 242 sq km: total area
• 120 km: coastline
• 240 m: highest point (Morne de la Grande Montagne)
• 0 km: land boundaries

People and Society

With a population estimated at around 5,070 in 2025, the majority of residents are French nationals, primarily of Basque and Breton descent. French is the official language, and the society is predominantly Roman Catholic. The population has a median age of 51.8 years, and there is a notable trend of urbanization with 90.1% of residents living in urban areas.

• 51.8 years: median age
• 6.31 births/1,000: birth rate (2025 est.)
• 11.83 deaths/1,000: death rate (2025 est.)
• -1.24%: population growth rate (2025 est.)

Economy

Saint Pierre and Miquelon's economy is categorized as high-income, driven largely by the fishing sector and bolstered by French government support. The territory utilizes the euro and relies on seasonal labor, while tourism is gaining prominence as a source of economic growth.

• $261.3 million: real GDP (PPP, 2015 est.)
• 78%: exports to Canada (2023)
• 57%: imports from France (2023)

Government

The islands function as a parliamentary democracy under the French government, with their capital in Saint-Pierre. The governance structure includes a Territorial Council, and the legal system is based on French civil law. The national holiday is celebrated on July 14, commemorating the French Revolution.

• 18 years: voting age
• 19 seats: in the Territorial Council
• UTC-3: time zone

Military and Security

Defense responsibilities for Saint Pierre and Miquelon lie with France, ensuring the territories are protected under French military provisions.

Energy

Saint Pierre and Miquelon rely entirely on fossil fuels for electricity generation, with an installed capacity of 26,000 kW. The electricity consumption is significant, reflecting the small population's reliance on energy for everyday activities.

• 48.714 million kWh: electricity consumption (2023)
• 400 bbl/day: refined petroleum consumption (2023)

Transportation

The transportation infrastructure includes two airports and several ports, facilitating trade and accessibility to the islands. There is one key port located in each of the main islands, enhancing ferry and cargo operations.

• 2: airports (2025)
• 2: total ports (2024)

Communications

Saint Pierre and Miquelon has a well-established telecommunications network, including multiple television and radio stations affiliated with the French Overseas Network. The internet access is widespread, with a high percentage of users.

• 88.7%: internet usage among the population (2022 est.)
• 4,800: fixed line subscriptions (2015 est.)

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	5,070	(2025 est.)
Area	242 sq km
GDP	$261.3 million	(PPP, 2015 est.)
Electricity Consumption	48.714 million kWh	(2023 est.)
Birth Rate	6.31 births/1,000	(2025 est.)
Death Rate	11.83 deaths/1,000	(2025 est.)
Median Age	51.8 years	(2025 est.)
Urban Population	90.1%	(2023)
Refined Petroleum Consumption	400 bbl/day	(2023 est.)
Installed Generating Capacity	26,000 kW	(2023 est.)