Cultural showcase of Malta featuring landmarks, cuisine, and traditions

Malta

Republic of Malta

Malta flag

Capital

Valletta

Region

Europe

Population

574,250

Area (km²)

316

💡Quick Summary

Malta is a small island nation in the Mediterranean Sea, part of Europe, with a population of about 574,250 spread across just 316 km², making it one of the world's most densely populated countries. Its capital, Valletta, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its Baroque architecture and historic fortifications. While GDP data isn't available here, Malta thrives on tourism, financial services, and maritime trade, blending ancient history with modern EU membership for a vibrant cultural scene.

Key Insights

Economic Paradox: High Growth Meets Low Unemployment

Malta exhibits an exceptionally strong economic performance with a high GDP growth rate (10.62%) coupled with a very low unemployment rate (3.11%). This suggests a rapidly expanding economy potentially operating near or at full employment capacity, which can lead to wage inflation and reliance on foreign labor.

Affluence and Inflation: The Cost of Success

Despite a high GDP per capita (over $40,900), comparable to many Western European nations, Malta is experiencing a significant inflation rate (5.09%). This suggests that the rapid economic expansion and high demand are contributing to rising prices, potentially eroding purchasing power for residents.

Demographic Challenge: Critically Low Fertility

Malta's fertility rate stands at a critically low 1.06 children per woman, far below the replacement rate of 2.1. This indicates a rapidly aging native population and a high dependency on immigration to maintain workforce size and overall population stability, despite a recent population increase.

Exceptional Longevity in a Dense Nation

Malta boasts a very high life expectancy of 83.51 years, placing it among the top countries globally. This achievement is notable given its extremely high population density and small geographic area, suggesting excellent healthcare access and quality of life indicators.

Economic Indicators
Latest economic data from World Bank

GDP (Current US$)

$22.61B

Year: 2023

GDP Per Capita

$40,905.81

GDP Growth (%)

10.62%

Inflation (%)

5.09%

Unemployment (%)

3.11%

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
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023-5.00%0.00%5.00%10.00%15.00%
  • GDP Growth (%)
Population Growth
Total population over time
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230150,000300,000450,000600,000
  • Population
Life Expectancy
Average life expectancy at birth (years)
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230.0years25.0years50.0years75.0years100.0years
  • Life Expectancy (years)
Renewable Energy Consumption
Percentage of total energy from renewable sources
201420152016201720182019202020210.0%3.0%6.0%9.0%12.0%
  • Renewable Energy (%)
GDP Per Capita
Economic output per person (current US$)
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023$0$15,000$30,000$45,000$60,000
  • GDP Per Capita ($)

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