Kiribati flag

Kiribati

Independent and Sovereign Republic of Kiribati

Capital

South Tarawa

Region

Oceania

Population

120,740

Area (km²)

811

💡Quick Summary

Kiribati, a remote island nation in Oceania, spans just 811 km² across 33 atolls and islands in the Pacific Ocean, home to a population of around 120,740. Its capital, South Tarawa, serves as the bustling hub for this low-lying archipelago, where climate change poses a major threat to its existence. With GDP data unavailable, Kiribati relies on fishing, copra exports, and international aid to sustain its vibrant, community-driven economy.

Key Insights

Near-Universal Electricity Access Despite Low GDP

A notable achievement for Kiribati is its high rate of access to electricity, reaching 95.900% of the population. This level of access is impressive for a nation with a very low GDP per capita ($2,177.70) and suggests successful infrastructure investment and distribution efforts, possibly aided by international partners.

High Fertility Rate Sustains Population Growth

Kiribati maintains a high fertility rate of 3.15 children per woman, significantly above the replacement level (2.1). This high rate contributes to rapid population growth (132,530 total population), placing increased strain on the limited resources and infrastructure of the small island state.

Infant Mortality Significantly Higher Than Developed Nations

Kiribati faces a serious public health challenge with an infant mortality rate of 39.700 per 1,000 live births. This rate is alarmingly high compared to developed nations (often below 5) and indicates significant deficiencies in maternal care, sanitation, and early childhood health services.

High Inflation vs. Modest GDP Growth

Kiribati faces significant economic pressure with a high inflation rate of 9.283%, far outpacing its modest GDP growth of 2.652%. This suggests a substantial erosion of purchasing power for its citizens, potentially driven by high import costs typical for remote island nations.

Economic Indicators
Latest economic data from World Bank

GDP (Current US$)

$288.61M

Year: 2023

GDP Per Capita

$2,177.7

GDP Growth (%)

2.65%

Inflation (%)

9.28%

Unemployment (%)

N/A%

Debt to GDP (%)

N/A%

Source: World Bank • Last updated: 12/24/2025

Historical Trends & Data Visualizations

GDP Growth Rate
Annual percentage change in GDP over time
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023-4.00%0.00%4.00%8.00%12.00%
  • GDP Growth (%)
Population Growth
Total population over time
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023035,00070,000105,000140,000
  • Population
Life Expectancy
Average life expectancy at birth (years)
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230.0years20.0years40.0years60.0years80.0years
  • Life Expectancy (years)
Renewable Energy Consumption
Percentage of total energy from renewable sources
2014201520162017201820192020202120220.0%15.0%30.0%45.0%60.0%
  • Renewable Energy (%)
GDP Per Capita
Economic output per person (current US$)
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023$0$600$1,200$1,800$2,400
  • GDP Per Capita ($)

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