Country Profile: Singapore

Singapore, strategically located in Southeastern Asia between Malaysia and Indonesia, is known as a global financial hub and a center for international trade. With a population of approximately 6 million, it boasts a highly developed economy characterized by a significant service sector and a high per capita GDP. Governed as a parliamentary republic since its independence in 1965, Singapore has maintained a stable political environment, largely dominated by the People's Action Party. The city-state faces challenges such as an aging population and environmental issues while continuing to invest heavily in infrastructure, education, and healthcare.

Geography

Singapore consists of about 60 islands and is strategically positioned along major Southeast Asian sea routes. The climate is tropical, characterized by high humidity and two distinct monsoon seasons. With a total area of 719 square kilometers, the country's terrain is mainly low-lying and gently undulating.

Area: 719 sq km
Coastline: 193 km
Climate: Tropical, with frequent thunderstorms
Natural Hazards: Flash floods
Highest Point: Bukit Timah at 166 m

People and Society

The population of Singapore is estimated at 6,028,459 in 2024, comprising diverse ethnic groups: predominantly Chinese (74.2%), followed by Malays (13.7%) and Indians (8.9%). English, Mandarin, and Malay are the official languages, reflecting the multicultural nature of society. The country enjoys high literacy rates and a robust healthcare system.

Population (2024): 6,028,459
Median Age: 39.4 years
Urbanization Rate: 100% (2023)
Life Expectancy: 86.7 years
Literacy Rate: 98% (2021)

Economy

Singapore's economy is classified as high-income and heavily service-oriented, making it one of the wealthiest nations globally. The real GDP is projected to reach $800.304 billion in 2024, with GDP per capita approximating $132,600. The nation is known for its business-friendly environment and significant investments in education and infrastructure, although it faces inflationary pressures in the services sector.

Real GDP (PPP, 2024): $800.304 billion
Unemployment Rate (2024): 3.2%
GDP Composition: 73% services, 21.4% industry
Exports (2024): $978.597 billion
Public Debt (2023): 175.6% of GDP

Government

Singapore operates as a parliamentary republic with a legal system based on English common law. The President serves as the head of state, while the Prime Minister is the head of government. The People's Action Party has dominated politics since independence, ensuring a stable governance structure.

Government Type: Parliamentary republic
President: THARMAN Shanmugaratnam (since 2023)
Prime Minister: Lawrence WONG (since 2024)
Legislature: Unicameral Parliament with 108 seats
Voting Age: 21 years

Military and Security

The Singapore Armed Forces comprise the Army, Navy, and Air Force, emphasizing external defense and maritime security. The nation mandates compulsory military service for males aged 18-21. Singapore's defense strategy includes close cooperation with international partners, particularly the Five Powers Defense Arrangements.

Military Expenditures (2024): 3% of GDP
Active Personnel: Approximately 55,000
Mandatory Service Age: 18-21 years
Military Partnerships: Five Powers Defense Arrangements
Primary Responsibility: External defense and maritime security

Energy

Singapore's energy landscape is heavily reliant on fossil fuels, with a significant installed generating capacity of 13.134 million kW as of 2023. The country aims to diversify its energy sources, with increasing investments in solar energy.

Electricity Access: 100% (2022)
Fossil Fuels Share: 94.8% of total installed capacity
Natural Gas Consumption (2023): 13.134 billion cubic meters
Solar Energy Contribution: 2% of total installed capacity
Electricity Consumption (2023): 56.672 billion kWh

Environment

Singapore faces various environmental challenges, including water pollution, waste disposal issues, and limited freshwater resources. The government is actively addressing these issues through international agreements and sustainable practices.

Water Pollution: Significant concern
Municipal Solid Waste: 1.87 million tons generated annually (2024)
Recycling Rate: 51.7% (2022)
Carbon Dioxide Emissions (2023): 238.962 million metric tonnes
Forested Area: 21.2% (2022)

Transportation

The transportation system in Singapore is well-developed, featuring an extensive network of roads, public transit systems, and ports. The country has nine airports and maintains an efficient merchant marine fleet.

Airports: 9 (2025)
Merchant Marine Vessels: 3,202 (2023)
Public Transport Usage: High among the urban population
Ports: 5 major ports (2024)
Heliports: 1 (2025)

Communications

Singapore has a highly developed communications network, with a high rate of internet usage and mobile subscriptions. The government controls significant broadcast media, while private providers offer diverse services.

Internet Users: 94% (2023)
Fixed-line Subscriptions: 1.912 million (2023)
Mobile Cellular Subscriptions: 9.65 million (2023)
Broadband Subscriptions: 1.57 million (2023)
Television Stations: 6 state-operated

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	6,028,459 (2024 est.)
Area	719 sq km
Real GDP (PPP)	$800.304 billion (2024)
Unemployment Rate	3.2% (2024 est.)
Life Expectancy	86.7 years (2024 est.)
Literacy Rate	98% (2021 est.)
Electricity Access	100% (2022 est.)
Waste Generated	1.87 million tons (2024 est.)
Military Expenditures	3% of GDP (2024 est.)
Carbon Dioxide Emissions	238.962 million metric tonnes (2023 est.)