Tonga flag

Tonga

Kingdom of Tonga

Capital

Nuku'alofa

Region

Oceania

Population

100,179

Area (km²)

747

💡Quick Summary

Tonga, a Polynesian kingdom in Oceania, spans 747 km² across 171 islands in the South Pacific, with a population of about 100,179 people calling Nuku'alofa its capital. As the only Pacific nation never colonized, it boasts a rich cultural heritage centered on monarchy, traditional dances, and ocean-dependent livelihoods like fishing and tourism. While GDP data is unavailable here, the economy relies on agriculture, remittances, and aid, facing challenges from climate change and natural disasters.

Key Insights

Inflation Outpacing GDP Growth

The economic data shows a significant challenge where inflation (6.351%) is more than double the GDP growth rate (2.790%). This suggests that the purchasing power of the average Tongan is likely eroding, as price increases are outpacing the overall expansion of the economy.

Moderate Life Expectancy and Low Infant Mortality

With a life expectancy of 72.90 years and a low infant mortality rate of 8.000 per 1,000 live births, Tonga demonstrates relatively strong basic public health outcomes for its income level. The low infant mortality rate, in particular, suggests effective maternal and child health interventions.

High Fertility Rate Suggests Future Population Growth Pressure

Tonga's fertility rate stands at 3.13, significantly above the replacement level (2.1). This high rate indicates potential for rapid population growth in the coming decades, placing pressure on limited resources, infrastructure, and job creation within the small island nation.

Low Unemployment Masking Potential Economic Challenges

Tonga boasts a remarkably low unemployment rate of 2.262%. While this suggests a high level of labor utilization, in small economies, such low figures can sometimes be misleading, potentially masking underemployment or significant labor migration (brain drain) due to limited high-wage opportunities.

Economic Indicators
Latest economic data from World Bank

GDP (Current US$)

$591.14M

Year: 2023

GDP Per Capita

$5,651.59

GDP Growth (%)

2.79%

Inflation (%)

6.35%

Unemployment (%)

2.26%

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
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023-3.00%0.00%3.00%6.00%9.00%
  • GDP Growth (%)
Population Growth
Total population over time
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023030,00060,00090,000120,000
  • 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%0.6%1.2%1.8%2.4%
  • Renewable Energy (%)
GDP Per Capita
Economic output per person (current US$)
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023$0$1,500$3,000$4,500$6,000
  • GDP Per Capita ($)

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