Knelstrom Intelligence · World Factbook
Guatemala
CapitalGuatemala City
Population18,687,881
GDP$123.3bn
Area108,889 km²
RegionLatin America & Caribbean
Data sources current · last checked September 20, 2026 2:10 am
Country facts
Overview
Background
The Maya civilization flourished in Guatemala and surrounding regions during the first millennium A.D. After almost three centuries as a Spanish colony, Guatemala won its independence in 1821. During the second half of the 20th century, it experienced a variety of military and civilian governments, as well as a 36-year guerrilla war. In 1996, the government signed a peace agreement formally ending the internal conflict.
Reference: 1996Geography
Location
Central America, bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between El Salvador and Mexico, and bordering the Gulf of Honduras (Caribbean Sea) between Honduras and Belize
Map references
Central America and the Caribbean
Area
total: 108,889 sq km
land: 107,159 sq km
water: 1,730 sq km
land: 107,159 sq km
water: 1,730 sq km
Area - comparative
slightly smaller than Pennsylvania
Land boundaries
total: 1,667 km
border countries: Belize 266 km; El Salvador 199 km; Honduras 244 km; Mexico 958 km
border countries: Belize 266 km; El Salvador 199 km; Honduras 244 km; Mexico 958 km
Coastline
400 km
Maritime claims
territorial sea: 12 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
Climate
tropical; hot, humid in lowlands; cooler in highlands
Terrain
two east-west trending mountain chains divide the country into three regions: the mountainous highlands, the Pacific coast south of mountains, and the vast northern Peten lowlands
Elevation
highest point: Volcan Tajumulco (highest point in Central America) 4,220 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 759 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 759 m
Natural resources
petroleum, nickel, rare woods, fish, chicle, hydropower
Land use
agricultural land: 43% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 14.5% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 11% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 17.5% (2023 est.)
forest: 33.2% (2023 est.)
other: 23.7% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 14.5% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 11% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 17.5% (2023 est.)
forest: 33.2% (2023 est.)
other: 23.7% (2023 est.)
Irrigated land
3,375 sq km (2012)
Reference: 2012Major lakes (area sq km)
fresh water lake(s): Lago de Izabal - 590 sq km
Population distribution
the vast majority of the populace resides in the southern half of the country, particularly in the mountainous regions; more than half of the population lives in rural areas
Natural hazards
numerous volcanoes in mountains, with occasional violent earthquakes; Caribbean coast extremely susceptible to hurricanes and other tropical storms
volcanism: significant volcanic activity in the Sierra Madre range; Santa Maria (3,772 m) has been deemed a Decade Volcano by the International Association of Volcanology and Chemistry of the Earth's Interior, worthy of study due to its explosive history and close proximity to human populations; Pacaya (2,552 m) is one of the country's most active volcanoes, with frequent eruptions since 1965; other historically active volcanoes include Acatenango, Almolonga, Atitlan, Fuego, and Tacana; see note 2 under "Geography - note"
Reference: 1965volcanism: significant volcanic activity in the Sierra Madre range; Santa Maria (3,772 m) has been deemed a Decade Volcano by the International Association of Volcanology and Chemistry of the Earth's Interior, worthy of study due to its explosive history and close proximity to human populations; Pacaya (2,552 m) is one of the country's most active volcanoes, with frequent eruptions since 1965; other historically active volcanoes include Acatenango, Almolonga, Atitlan, Fuego, and Tacana; see note 2 under "Geography - note"
Geography - note
note 1: despite having both eastern and western coastlines (Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean), there are no natural harbors on the west coast
note 2: Guatemala is one of the countries along the Ring of Fire, which is a belt bordering the Pacific Ocean that contains about 75% of the world's volcanoes and up to 90% of the world's earthquakes
note 2: Guatemala is one of the countries along the Ring of Fire, which is a belt bordering the Pacific Ocean that contains about 75% of the world's volcanoes and up to 90% of the world's earthquakes
Population & Society
Nationality
noun: Guatemalan(s)
adjective: Guatemalan
adjective: Guatemalan
Ethnic groups
Mestizo (mixed Indigenous-Spanish - in local Spanish called Ladino) 56%, Maya 41.7%, Xinca (Indigenous, non-Maya) 1.8%, African descent 0.2%, Garifuna (mixed West and Central African, Island Carib, and Arawak) 0.1%, foreign 0.2% (2018 est.)
Reference: 2018Languages
Languages: Spanish (official) 69.9%, Maya languages 29.7% (Q'eqchi' 8.3%, K'iche 7.8%, Mam 4.4%, Kaqchikel 3%, Q'anjob'al 1.2%, Poqomchi' 1%, other 4%), other 0.4% (includes Xinca and Garifuna) (2018 est.)
major-language sample(s): La Libreta Informativa del Mundo, la fuente indispensable de información básica. (Spanish)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
note: note: the 2003 Law of National Languages officially recognized 23 indigenous languages, including 21 Maya languages, Xinca, and Garifuna
Reference: 2018, 2003major-language sample(s): La Libreta Informativa del Mundo, la fuente indispensable de información básica. (Spanish)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
note: note: the 2003 Law of National Languages officially recognized 23 indigenous languages, including 21 Maya languages, Xinca, and Garifuna
Religions
Evangelical 45.7%, Roman Catholic 42.4%, none 11%, unspecified 0.9% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Age structure
0-14 years: 31.5% (male 2,925,079/female 2,819,927)
15-64 years: 63.2% (male 5,688,500/female 5,839,958)
65 years and over: 5.4% (2024 est.) (male 437,105/female 544,647)
Reference: 202415-64 years: 63.2% (male 5,688,500/female 5,839,958)
65 years and over: 5.4% (2024 est.) (male 437,105/female 544,647)
Dependency ratios
total dependency ratio: 58.3 (2024 est.)
youth dependency ratio: 49.8 (2024 est.)
elderly dependency ratio: 8.5 (2024 est.)
potential support ratio: 11.7 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024youth dependency ratio: 49.8 (2024 est.)
elderly dependency ratio: 8.5 (2024 est.)
potential support ratio: 11.7 (2024 est.)
Median age
total: 24.8 years (2024 est.)
male: 24.2 years
female: 25.4 years
Reference: 2024male: 24.2 years
female: 25.4 years
Population growth rate
1.49% (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Birth rate
21.4 births/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Death rate
4.9 deaths/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Population distribution
the vast majority of the populace resides in the southern half of the country, particularly in the mountainous regions; more than half of the population lives in rural areas
Major urban areas - population
3.095 million GUATEMALA CITY (capital) (2023)
Reference: 2023Sex ratio
at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.04 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 0.97 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.8 male(s)/female
total population: 0.98 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
Reference: 20240-14 years: 1.04 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 0.97 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.8 male(s)/female
total population: 0.98 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth
20.6 years (2014/15 est.)
note: note: data represents median age at first birth among women 25-49
Reference: 2014note: note: data represents median age at first birth among women 25-49
Maternal mortality ratio
94 deaths/100,000 live births (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Gross reproduction rate
1.23 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Drinking water source
improved: urban: urban: 97.8% of population (2022 est.)
improved: rural: rural: 91% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 94.6% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 2.2% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 9% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 5.4% of population (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022improved: rural: rural: 91% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 94.6% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 2.2% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 9% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 5.4% of population (2022 est.)
Health expenditure
Health expenditure (as % of GDP): 6.9% of GDP (2021)
Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 16.9% of national budget (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022, 2021Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 16.9% of national budget (2022 est.)
Physician density
1.28 physicians/1,000 population (2020)
Reference: 2020Hospital bed density
0.4 beds/1,000 population (2021 est.)
Reference: 2021Sanitation facility access
improved: urban: urban: 91.4% of population (2022 est.)
improved: rural: rural: 68.9% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 80.8% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 8.6% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 31.1% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 19.2% of population (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022improved: rural: rural: 68.9% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 80.8% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 8.6% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 31.1% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 19.2% of population (2022 est.)
Obesity - adult prevalence rate
21.2% (2016)
Reference: 2016Alcohol consumption per capita
total: 1.63 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
beer: 0.9 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
wine: 0.05 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
spirits: 0.68 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
other alcohols: 0.01 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Reference: 2019beer: 0.9 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
wine: 0.05 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
spirits: 0.68 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
other alcohols: 0.01 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Tobacco use
total: 11.8% (2025 est.)
male: 22.5% (2025 est.)
female: 1.5% (2025 est.)
male: 22.5% (2025 est.)
female: 1.5% (2025 est.)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight
14.4% (2021 est.)
Reference: 2021Currently married women (ages 15-49)
57.2% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Child marriage
women married by age 15: 6.2% (2015)
women married by age 18: 29.5% (2015)
men married by age 18: 9.6% (2015)
Reference: 2015women married by age 18: 29.5% (2015)
men married by age 18: 9.6% (2015)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education)
total: 11 years (2023 est.)
male: 10 years (2023 est.)
female: 11 years (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023male: 10 years (2023 est.)
female: 11 years (2023 est.)
Migration & Displacement
Immigrant/emigrant stock measures the number of international migrants resident in, or originating from, the country; it is not the same as annual immigration/emigration flows.
Refugees and internally displaced persons
refugees: 4,676 (2024 est.)
IDPs: 572,813 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024IDPs: 572,813 (2024 est.)
Government & Politics
| Office | Holder | Affiliation | From | Status | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Head of state | Bernardo Arévalo de León | — | 2024-01-15 | Current | Reported |
| Head of government | Bernardo Arévalo de León | — | 2024-01-15 | Current | Reported |
Country name
conventional long form: Republic of Guatemala
conventional short form: Guatemala
local long form: República de Guatemala
local short form: Guatemala
etymology: the Spanish conquistadors' first capital (established in 1524) was a former Mayan settlement called "Quauhtemallan" by their Nahuatl-speaking Mexican allies, a name that means "land of the eagle" but that the Spanish probably pronounced "Guatemala"
conventional short form: Guatemala
local long form: República de Guatemala
local short form: Guatemala
etymology: the Spanish conquistadors' first capital (established in 1524) was a former Mayan settlement called "Quauhtemallan" by their Nahuatl-speaking Mexican allies, a name that means "land of the eagle" but that the Spanish probably pronounced "Guatemala"
Capital
name: Guatemala City
geographic coordinates: 14 37 N, 90 31 W
time difference: UTC-6 (1 hour behind Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the Spanish conquistadors' first capital (established in 1524) was a former Mayan settlement called "Quauhtemallan" by their Nahuatl-speaking Mexican allies, a name that means "land of the eagle" but that the Spanish probably pronounced "Guatemala"
geographic coordinates: 14 37 N, 90 31 W
time difference: UTC-6 (1 hour behind Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the Spanish conquistadors' first capital (established in 1524) was a former Mayan settlement called "Quauhtemallan" by their Nahuatl-speaking Mexican allies, a name that means "land of the eagle" but that the Spanish probably pronounced "Guatemala"
Administrative divisions
22 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Alta Verapaz, Baja Verapaz, Chimaltenango, Chiquimula, El Progreso, Escuintla, Guatemala, Huehuetenango, Izabal, Jalapa, Jutiapa, Peten, Quetzaltenango, Quiche, Retalhuleu, Sacatepéquez, San Marcos, Santa Rosa, Sololá, Suchitepéquez, Totonicapán, Zacapa
Legal system
civil law system; judicial review of legislative acts
Constitution
history: several previous; latest adopted 31 May 1985, effective 14 January 1986; suspended and reinstated in 1994
amendment process: proposed by the president of the republic, by agreement of 10 or more deputies of Congress, by the Constitutional Court, or by public petition of at least 5,000 citizens; passage requires at least two-thirds majority vote by the Congress membership and approval by public referendum, referred to as "popular consultation"; constitutional articles such as national sovereignty, the republican form of government, limitations on those seeking the presidency, or presidential tenure cannot be amended
Reference: 1994, 1986, 1985amendment process: proposed by the president of the republic, by agreement of 10 or more deputies of Congress, by the Constitutional Court, or by public petition of at least 5,000 citizens; passage requires at least two-thirds majority vote by the Congress membership and approval by public referendum, referred to as "popular consultation"; constitutional articles such as national sovereignty, the republican form of government, limitations on those seeking the presidency, or presidential tenure cannot be amended
International law organization participation
has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Citizenship
citizenship by birth: yes
citizenship by descent only: yes
dual citizenship recognized: yes
residency requirement for naturalization: 5 years with no absences of six consecutive months or longer or absences totaling more than a year
citizenship by descent only: yes
dual citizenship recognized: yes
residency requirement for naturalization: 5 years with no absences of six consecutive months or longer or absences totaling more than a year
Suffrage
18 years of age; universal
note: note: active-duty members of the armed forces and police by law cannot vote and are restricted to their barracks on election day
note: note: active-duty members of the armed forces and police by law cannot vote and are restricted to their barracks on election day
Executive branch
chief of state: President Bernardo ARÉVALO de León (since 15 January 2024)
head of government: President Bernardo ARÉVALO de León (since 15 January 2024)
cabinet: Council of Ministers appointed by the president
election/appointment process: president and vice president directly elected on the same ballot by absolute-majority popular vote in 2 rounds, if needed, for a 4-year term (not eligible for consecutive terms)
most recent election date: 25 June 2023, with a runoff on 20 August 2023
election results: 2023: Bernardo ARÉVALO de León elected president in second round; percent of vote in first round - Sandra TORRES (UNE) 21%; Bernardo ARÉVALO de León (SEMILLA) 15.6%, Manuel CONDE Orellana (VAMOS) 10.4%; Armando CASTILLO Alvarado (VIVA) 9.6%, other 43.4%; percent of vote in second round - Bernardo ARÉVALO de León 60.9%, Sandra TORRES 39.1%
2019: Alejandro GIAMMATTEI elected president; percent of vote in first round - Sandra TORRES (UNE) 25.5%, Alejandro GIAMMATTEI (VAMOS) 14%, Edmond MULET (PHG) 11.2%, Thelma CABRERA (MLP) 10.4%, Roberto ARZU (PAN-PODEMOS) 6.1%, other 32.8%; percent of vote in second round - Alejandro GIAMMATTEI 58%, Sandra TORRES 42%
expected date of next election: June 2027
note: note: the president is both chief of state and head of government
Reference: 2027, 2024, 2023, 2019head of government: President Bernardo ARÉVALO de León (since 15 January 2024)
cabinet: Council of Ministers appointed by the president
election/appointment process: president and vice president directly elected on the same ballot by absolute-majority popular vote in 2 rounds, if needed, for a 4-year term (not eligible for consecutive terms)
most recent election date: 25 June 2023, with a runoff on 20 August 2023
election results: 2023: Bernardo ARÉVALO de León elected president in second round; percent of vote in first round - Sandra TORRES (UNE) 21%; Bernardo ARÉVALO de León (SEMILLA) 15.6%, Manuel CONDE Orellana (VAMOS) 10.4%; Armando CASTILLO Alvarado (VIVA) 9.6%, other 43.4%; percent of vote in second round - Bernardo ARÉVALO de León 60.9%, Sandra TORRES 39.1%
2019: Alejandro GIAMMATTEI elected president; percent of vote in first round - Sandra TORRES (UNE) 25.5%, Alejandro GIAMMATTEI (VAMOS) 14%, Edmond MULET (PHG) 11.2%, Thelma CABRERA (MLP) 10.4%, Roberto ARZU (PAN-PODEMOS) 6.1%, other 32.8%; percent of vote in second round - Alejandro GIAMMATTEI 58%, Sandra TORRES 42%
expected date of next election: June 2027
note: note: the president is both chief of state and head of government
Legislative branch
legislature name: Congress of the Republic (Congreso de la República)
legislative structure: unicameral
number of seats: 160 (all directly elected)
electoral system: mixed system
scope of elections: full renewal
term in office: 4 years
most recent election date: 6/25/2023
parties elected and seats per party: Let’s Go for a Different Guatemala (Vamos) (39); National Unity of Hope Party (UNE) (28); Seed Movement (Semilla) (23); Cabal (18); Vision with Values (VIVA) (11); Other (41)
percentage of women in chamber: 20%
expected date of next election: June 2027
Reference: 2027, 2023legislative structure: unicameral
number of seats: 160 (all directly elected)
electoral system: mixed system
scope of elections: full renewal
term in office: 4 years
most recent election date: 6/25/2023
parties elected and seats per party: Let’s Go for a Different Guatemala (Vamos) (39); National Unity of Hope Party (UNE) (28); Seed Movement (Semilla) (23); Cabal (18); Vision with Values (VIVA) (11); Other (41)
percentage of women in chamber: 20%
expected date of next election: June 2027
Judicial branch
highest court(s): Supreme Court of Justice or Corte Suprema de Justicia (consists of 13 magistrates, including the court president and organized into 3 chambers)
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court magistrates elected by the Congress of the Republic from candidates proposed by the Postulation Committee, an independent body of deans of the country's university law schools, representatives of the country's law associations, and representatives of the Courts of Appeal; magistrates elected for concurrent, renewable 5-year terms; Constitutional Court judges - 1 elected by the Congress of the Republic, 1 by the Supreme Court, 1 by the president of the republic, 1 by the (public) University of San Carlos, and 1 by the Assembly of the College of Attorneys and Notaries; judges elected for renewable, consecutive 5-year terms; the presidency of the court rotates among the magistrates for a single 1-year term
subordinate courts: Appellate Courts of Accounts, Contentious Administrative Tribunal, courts of appeal, first instance courts, child and adolescence courts, minor or peace courts
note: note 1: the Supreme Court of Justice president also supervises trial judges countrywide
note 2: the Constitutional Court or Corte de Constitucionalidad of Guatemala resides outside the country's judicial system; its sole purpose is the interpretation of the constitution and to see that the laws and regulations are not superior to the constitution (consists of 5 titular magistrates and 5 substitute magistrates)
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court magistrates elected by the Congress of the Republic from candidates proposed by the Postulation Committee, an independent body of deans of the country's university law schools, representatives of the country's law associations, and representatives of the Courts of Appeal; magistrates elected for concurrent, renewable 5-year terms; Constitutional Court judges - 1 elected by the Congress of the Republic, 1 by the Supreme Court, 1 by the president of the republic, 1 by the (public) University of San Carlos, and 1 by the Assembly of the College of Attorneys and Notaries; judges elected for renewable, consecutive 5-year terms; the presidency of the court rotates among the magistrates for a single 1-year term
subordinate courts: Appellate Courts of Accounts, Contentious Administrative Tribunal, courts of appeal, first instance courts, child and adolescence courts, minor or peace courts
note: note 1: the Supreme Court of Justice president also supervises trial judges countrywide
note 2: the Constitutional Court or Corte de Constitucionalidad of Guatemala resides outside the country's judicial system; its sole purpose is the interpretation of the constitution and to see that the laws and regulations are not superior to the constitution (consists of 5 titular magistrates and 5 substitute magistrates)
Political parties
Bienestar Nacional or BIEN
Blue Party (Partido Azul) or Blue
CABAL
Cambio
Citizen Prosperity or PC
Commitment, Renewal, and Order or CREO
Elephant Community (Comunidad Elefante) or Elephant
Everyone Together for Guatemala or TODOS
Guatemalan National Revolutionary Unity or URNG-MAIZ or URNG
Humanist Party of Guatemala or PHG
Movement for the Liberation of Peoples or MLP
Movimiento Semilla or SEMILLA
National Advancement Party or PAN
National Convergence Front or FCN-NACION
National Unity for Hope or UNE
Nationalist Change Union or UCN (dissolved 16 December 2021)
Nosotros or PPN
PODEMOS
Political Movement Winaq or Winaq
TODOS
Value or VALOR
Vamos por una Guatemala Diferente or VAMOS
Victory or VICTORIA
Vision with Values or VIVA
Will, Opportunity and Solidarity (Voluntad, Oportunidad y Solidaridad) or VOS
Reference: 2021Blue Party (Partido Azul) or Blue
CABAL
Cambio
Citizen Prosperity or PC
Commitment, Renewal, and Order or CREO
Elephant Community (Comunidad Elefante) or Elephant
Everyone Together for Guatemala or TODOS
Guatemalan National Revolutionary Unity or URNG-MAIZ or URNG
Humanist Party of Guatemala or PHG
Movement for the Liberation of Peoples or MLP
Movimiento Semilla or SEMILLA
National Advancement Party or PAN
National Convergence Front or FCN-NACION
National Unity for Hope or UNE
Nationalist Change Union or UCN (dissolved 16 December 2021)
Nosotros or PPN
PODEMOS
Political Movement Winaq or Winaq
TODOS
Value or VALOR
Vamos por una Guatemala Diferente or VAMOS
Victory or VICTORIA
Vision with Values or VIVA
Will, Opportunity and Solidarity (Voluntad, Oportunidad y Solidaridad) or VOS
Diplomatic representation in the US
chief of mission: Ambassador Hugo Eduardo BETETA (since 17 June 2024)
chancery: 2220 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 745-4953
FAX: [1] (202) 745-1908
email address and website: embestadosunidos@minex.gob.gt
https://estadosunidos.minex.gob.gt/home/home.aspx
consulate(s) general: Atlanta, Chicago, Columbus (OH), Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, Nashville (TN), New York, Oklahoma City, Omaha (NE), Philadelphia, Phoenix, Providence (RI), Raleigh (NC), Rockville (MD), San Francisco, Seattle
consulate(s): Dallas, Del Rio (TX), Lake Worth (FL), McAllen (TX), Riverhead (NY), San Bernardino (CA), Tucson (AZ)
Reference: 2024, 1908chancery: 2220 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 745-4953
FAX: [1] (202) 745-1908
email address and website: embestadosunidos@minex.gob.gt
https://estadosunidos.minex.gob.gt/home/home.aspx
consulate(s) general: Atlanta, Chicago, Columbus (OH), Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, Nashville (TN), New York, Oklahoma City, Omaha (NE), Philadelphia, Phoenix, Providence (RI), Raleigh (NC), Rockville (MD), San Francisco, Seattle
consulate(s): Dallas, Del Rio (TX), Lake Worth (FL), McAllen (TX), Riverhead (NY), San Bernardino (CA), Tucson (AZ)
Diplomatic representation from the US
chief of mission: Ambassador Tobin BRADLEY (since 12 February 2024)
embassy: Boulevard Austriaco 11-51, Zone 16, Guatemala City
mailing address: 3190 Guatemala Place, Washington DC 20521-3190
telephone: [502] 2354-0000
FAX: [502] 2326-4654
email address and website: AmCitsGuatemala@state.gov
https://gt.usembassy.gov/
Reference: 2024embassy: Boulevard Austriaco 11-51, Zone 16, Guatemala City
mailing address: 3190 Guatemala Place, Washington DC 20521-3190
telephone: [502] 2354-0000
FAX: [502] 2326-4654
email address and website: AmCitsGuatemala@state.gov
https://gt.usembassy.gov/
International organization participation
ACS, BCIE, CACM, CD, CELAC, EITI (compliant country), FAO, G-24, G-77, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICCt (signatory), ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO (correspondent), ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), LAES, LAIA (observer), MIGA, MINUSTAH, MONUSCO, NAM, OAS, OPANAL, OPCW, Pacific Alliance (observer), PCA, Petrocaribe, SICA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIFIL, Union Latina, UNISFA, UNITAR, UNMISS, UNOCI, UNOOSA, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Independence
15 September 1821 (from Spain)
National holiday
Independence Day, 15 September (1821)
Flag
description: three equal vertical bands of light blue (left side), white, and light blue, with the coat of arms centered in the white band; the coat of arms includes a green-and-red quetzal (the national bird), a scroll with the inscription LIBERTAD 15 DE SEPTIEMBRE DE 1821 (the original date of independence from Spain), a pair of crossed rifles, and a pair of crossed swords; a laurel wreath frames the objects
meaning: the rifles stand for Guatemala's willingness to defend itself, the swords for honor, and the laurel wreath for victory; blue stands for the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea, and white for peace and purity
note: note: one of two national flags featuring a firearm -- the other is Mozambique
meaning: the rifles stand for Guatemala's willingness to defend itself, the swords for honor, and the laurel wreath for victory; blue stands for the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea, and white for peace and purity
note: note: one of two national flags featuring a firearm -- the other is Mozambique
National symbol(s)
quetzal (bird)
National color(s)
blue, white
National anthem(s)
title: "Himno Nacional de Guatemala" (National Anthem of Guatemala)
lyrics/music: Jose Joaquin PALMA/Rafael Alvarez OVALLE
history: adopted 1897, modified lyrics adopted 1934; Cuban poet Jose Joaquin PALMA anonymously submitted lyrics to a public contest calling for a national anthem and it was not discovered until 1911; anthem has four verses with four separate choruses at the end of each verse -- all are official, and the anthem is sung in its entirety when performed in Guatemala
Reference: 1934, 1911lyrics/music: Jose Joaquin PALMA/Rafael Alvarez OVALLE
history: adopted 1897, modified lyrics adopted 1934; Cuban poet Jose Joaquin PALMA anonymously submitted lyrics to a public contest calling for a national anthem and it was not discovered until 1911; anthem has four verses with four separate choruses at the end of each verse -- all are official, and the anthem is sung in its entirety when performed in Guatemala
National heritage
total World Heritage Sites: 4 (3 cultural, 1 mixed)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Antigua Guatemala (c); Tikal National Park (m); Archaeological Park and Ruins of Quirigua (c); National Archaeological Park Tak'alik Ab'aj (c)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Antigua Guatemala (c); Tikal National Park (m); Archaeological Park and Ruins of Quirigua (c); National Archaeological Park Tak'alik Ab'aj (c)
Government & Official Links
| Institution | Official website | X / Twitter | Verification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guatemala official website | Official website | — | Reported · source Checked September 20, 2026 |
Institutional accounts only; personal accounts of political office-holders are excluded.
Legislature & Elections
Legislature
| Name | Chamber | Seats | Electoral system |
|---|---|---|---|
| Congress of the Republic of Guatemala | — | 160 | — |
Economy
Economic overview
developing Central American economy; steady economic growth fueled by remittances; high poverty and income inequality; limited government services, lack of employment opportunities, and frequent natural disasters impede human development efforts and drive emigration
Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2024: $232.673 billion (2024 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2023: $224.475 billion (2023 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2022: $216.815 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2023: $224.475 billion (2023 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2022: $216.815 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Real GDP per capita
Real GDP per capita 2024: $12,600 (2024 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2023: $12,400 (2023 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2022: $12,100 (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Real GDP per capita 2023: $12,400 (2023 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2022: $12,100 (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
GDP - composition, by sector of origin
agriculture: 9.8% (2024 est.)
industry: 21.7% (2024 est.)
services: 61.8% (2024 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
Reference: 2024industry: 21.7% (2024 est.)
services: 61.8% (2024 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
GDP - composition, by end use
household consumption: 88% (2024 est.)
government consumption: 10.9% (2024 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 16.1% (2024 est.)
investment in inventories: 0.6% (2024 est.)
exports of goods and services: 15.9% (2024 est.)
imports of goods and services: -31.5% (2024 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Reference: 2024government consumption: 10.9% (2024 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 16.1% (2024 est.)
investment in inventories: 0.6% (2024 est.)
exports of goods and services: 15.9% (2024 est.)
imports of goods and services: -31.5% (2024 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Agricultural products
sugarcane, bananas, oil palm fruit, maize, cantaloupes/melons, potatoes, milk, tomatoes, chicken, pineapples (2023)
note: note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
Reference: 2023note: note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
Industries
sugar, textiles and clothing, furniture, chemicals, petroleum, metals, rubber, tourism
Industrial production growth rate
2% (2024 est.)
note: note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
Reference: 2024note: note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
Labor force
7.575 million (2024 est.)
note: note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work
Reference: 2024note: note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work
Youth unemployment rate (ages 15-24)
total: 4.2% (2024 est.)
male: 4% (2024 est.)
female: 4.7% (2024 est.)
note: note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Reference: 2024male: 4% (2024 est.)
female: 4.7% (2024 est.)
note: note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Population below poverty line
56% (2023 est.)
note: note: % of population with income below national poverty line
Reference: 2023note: note: % of population with income below national poverty line
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income 2023: 45.2 (2023 est.)
note: note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequality
Reference: 2023note: note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequality
Average household expenditures
on food: 35.1% of household expenditures (2023 est.)
on alcohol and tobacco: 1.3% of household expenditures (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023on alcohol and tobacco: 1.3% of household expenditures (2023 est.)
Household income or consumption by percentage share
lowest 10%: 1.6% (2023 est.)
highest 10%: 34.1% (2023 est.)
note: note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population
Reference: 2023highest 10%: 34.1% (2023 est.)
note: note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population
Remittances
Remittances 2024: 19.1% of GDP (2024 est.)
Remittances 2023: 19.1% of GDP (2023 est.)
Remittances 2022: 19% of GDP (2022 est.)
note: note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Remittances 2023: 19.1% of GDP (2023 est.)
Remittances 2022: 19% of GDP (2022 est.)
note: note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
Budget
revenues: $16.603 billion (2023 est.)
expenditures: $17.349 billion (2023 est.)
note: note: central government revenues (excluding grants) and expenditures converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Reference: 2023expenditures: $17.349 billion (2023 est.)
note: note: central government revenues (excluding grants) and expenditures converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Public debt
Public debt 2020: 31.56% of GDP (2020 est.)
note: note: central government debt as a % of GDP
Reference: 2020note: note: central government debt as a % of GDP
Taxes and other revenues
11.6% (of GDP) (2023 est.)
note: note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDP
Reference: 2023note: note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDP
Current account balance
Current account balance 2024: $3.333 billion (2024 est.)
Current account balance 2023: $3.212 billion (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: $1.116 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Current account balance 2023: $3.212 billion (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: $1.116 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Exports
Exports 2024: $17.997 billion (2024 est.)
Exports 2023: $17.342 billion (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $18.141 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Exports 2023: $17.342 billion (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $18.141 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Exports - partners
USA 33%, El Salvador 11%, Honduras 9%, Nicaragua 6%, Mexico 4% (2023)
note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Exports - commodities
garments, bananas, coffee, palm oil, raw sugar (2023)
note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Imports
Imports 2024: $35.576 billion (2024 est.)
Imports 2023: $33.056 billion (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $33.943 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Imports 2023: $33.056 billion (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $33.943 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Imports - partners
USA 30%, China 19%, Mexico 11%, El Salvador 4%, Costa Rica 3% (2023)
note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Imports - commodities
refined petroleum, video displays, cars, trucks, packaged medicine (2023)
note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2024: $24.412 billion (2024 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2023: $21.311 billion (2023 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2022: $20.415 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2023: $21.311 billion (2023 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2022: $20.415 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
Debt - external
Debt - external 2023: $11.862 billion (2023 est.)
note: note: present value of external debt in current US dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: present value of external debt in current US dollars
Exchange rates
Currency: quetzales (GTQ) per US dollar -
Exchange rates 2024: 7.759 (2024 est.)
Exchange rates 2023: 7.832 (2023 est.)
Exchange rates 2022: 7.748 (2022 est.)
Exchange rates 2021: 7.734 (2021 est.)
Exchange rates 2020: 7.722 (2020 est.)
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Exchange rates 2024: 7.759 (2024 est.)
Exchange rates 2023: 7.832 (2023 est.)
Exchange rates 2022: 7.748 (2022 est.)
Exchange rates 2021: 7.734 (2021 est.)
Exchange rates 2020: 7.722 (2020 est.)
Trade
Current account balance
Current account balance 2024: $3.333 billion (2024 est.)
Current account balance 2023: $3.212 billion (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: $1.116 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Current account balance 2023: $3.212 billion (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: $1.116 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Exports
Exports 2024: $17.997 billion (2024 est.)
Exports 2023: $17.342 billion (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $18.141 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Exports 2023: $17.342 billion (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $18.141 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Exports - partners
USA 33%, El Salvador 11%, Honduras 9%, Nicaragua 6%, Mexico 4% (2023)
note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Exports - commodities
garments, bananas, coffee, palm oil, raw sugar (2023)
note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Imports
Imports 2024: $35.576 billion (2024 est.)
Imports 2023: $33.056 billion (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $33.943 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Imports 2023: $33.056 billion (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $33.943 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Imports - partners
USA 30%, China 19%, Mexico 11%, El Salvador 4%, Costa Rica 3% (2023)
note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Imports - commodities
refined petroleum, video displays, cars, trucks, packaged medicine (2023)
note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Energy & Resources
Electricity
installed generating capacity: 4.995 million kW (2023 est.)
consumption: 12.222 billion kWh (2023 est.)
exports: 1.104 billion kWh (2023 est.)
imports: 1.573 billion kWh (2023 est.)
transmission/distribution losses: 1.716 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023consumption: 12.222 billion kWh (2023 est.)
exports: 1.104 billion kWh (2023 est.)
imports: 1.573 billion kWh (2023 est.)
transmission/distribution losses: 1.716 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Electricity generation sources
fossil fuels: 25.4% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
solar: 1.8% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
wind: 2.6% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
hydroelectricity: 42% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
geothermal: 2.5% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
biomass and waste: 25.7% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023solar: 1.8% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
wind: 2.6% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
hydroelectricity: 42% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
geothermal: 2.5% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
biomass and waste: 25.7% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Coal
consumption: 1.012 million metric tons (2023 est.)
exports: 20 metric tons (2023 est.)
imports: 808,000 metric tons (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023exports: 20 metric tons (2023 est.)
imports: 808,000 metric tons (2023 est.)
Petroleum
total petroleum production: 6,000 bbl/day (2023 est.)
refined petroleum consumption: 117,000 bbl/day (2023 est.)
crude oil estimated reserves: 86.11 million barrels (2021 est.)
Reference: 2023, 2021refined petroleum consumption: 117,000 bbl/day (2023 est.)
crude oil estimated reserves: 86.11 million barrels (2021 est.)
Natural gas
production: 2.016 million cubic meters (2023 est.)
consumption: 1.991 million cubic meters (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023consumption: 1.991 million cubic meters (2023 est.)
Energy consumption per capita
Total energy consumption per capita 2023: 17.096 million Btu/person (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Infrastructure
Telephones - fixed lines
total subscriptions: 1.94 million (2023 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 11 (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 11 (2023 est.)
Health
Maternal mortality ratio
94 deaths/100,000 live births (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Health expenditure
Health expenditure (as % of GDP): 6.9% of GDP (2021)
Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 16.9% of national budget (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022, 2021Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 16.9% of national budget (2022 est.)
Physician density
1.28 physicians/1,000 population (2020)
Reference: 2020Hospital bed density
0.4 beds/1,000 population (2021 est.)
Reference: 2021Obesity - adult prevalence rate
21.2% (2016)
Reference: 2016Tobacco use
total: 11.8% (2025 est.)
male: 22.5% (2025 est.)
female: 1.5% (2025 est.)
male: 22.5% (2025 est.)
female: 1.5% (2025 est.)
Education
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education)
total: 11 years (2023 est.)
male: 10 years (2023 est.)
female: 11 years (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023male: 10 years (2023 est.)
female: 11 years (2023 est.)
Rights, Freedoms & Society
Press & Media Freedom
V-Dem expert-coded/modelled source measures. Knelstrom does not create a press-freedom ranking or composite score.
LGBTQ+ Rights & Law
Concrete legal-status fields only; Knelstrom does not generate an LGBTQ rights score or country ranking.
Source: Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory (CC BY-SA 4.0). Community-edited legal-status summary; retrieved by Knelstrom and not legal advice.
Crime & Justice
Legal system
civil law system; judicial review of legislative acts
Judicial branch
highest court(s): Supreme Court of Justice or Corte Suprema de Justicia (consists of 13 magistrates, including the court president and organized into 3 chambers)
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court magistrates elected by the Congress of the Republic from candidates proposed by the Postulation Committee, an independent body of deans of the country's university law schools, representatives of the country's law associations, and representatives of the Courts of Appeal; magistrates elected for concurrent, renewable 5-year terms; Constitutional Court judges - 1 elected by the Congress of the Republic, 1 by the Supreme Court, 1 by the president of the republic, 1 by the (public) University of San Carlos, and 1 by the Assembly of the College of Attorneys and Notaries; judges elected for renewable, consecutive 5-year terms; the presidency of the court rotates among the magistrates for a single 1-year term
subordinate courts: Appellate Courts of Accounts, Contentious Administrative Tribunal, courts of appeal, first instance courts, child and adolescence courts, minor or peace courts
note: note 1: the Supreme Court of Justice president also supervises trial judges countrywide
note 2: the Constitutional Court or Corte de Constitucionalidad of Guatemala resides outside the country's judicial system; its sole purpose is the interpretation of the constitution and to see that the laws and regulations are not superior to the constitution (consists of 5 titular magistrates and 5 substitute magistrates)
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court magistrates elected by the Congress of the Republic from candidates proposed by the Postulation Committee, an independent body of deans of the country's university law schools, representatives of the country's law associations, and representatives of the Courts of Appeal; magistrates elected for concurrent, renewable 5-year terms; Constitutional Court judges - 1 elected by the Congress of the Republic, 1 by the Supreme Court, 1 by the president of the republic, 1 by the (public) University of San Carlos, and 1 by the Assembly of the College of Attorneys and Notaries; judges elected for renewable, consecutive 5-year terms; the presidency of the court rotates among the magistrates for a single 1-year term
subordinate courts: Appellate Courts of Accounts, Contentious Administrative Tribunal, courts of appeal, first instance courts, child and adolescence courts, minor or peace courts
note: note 1: the Supreme Court of Justice president also supervises trial judges countrywide
note 2: the Constitutional Court or Corte de Constitucionalidad of Guatemala resides outside the country's judicial system; its sole purpose is the interpretation of the constitution and to see that the laws and regulations are not superior to the constitution (consists of 5 titular magistrates and 5 substitute magistrates)
Military & Security
Military and security forces
Army of Guatemala (Ejercito de Guatemala; aka Armed Forces of Guatemala or Fuerzas Armadas de Guatemala): Land Forces (Fuerzas de Tierra), Naval Forces (Fuerzas de Mar), and Air Force (Fuerza de Aire) (2025)
note: note: the National Civil Police (Policia Nacional Civil or PNC) are under the Ministry of Government (Interior)
note: note: the National Civil Police (Policia Nacional Civil or PNC) are under the Ministry of Government (Interior)
Military expenditures
Military Expenditures 2024: 0.4% of GDP (2024 est.)
Military Expenditures 2023: 0.4% of GDP (2023 est.)
Military Expenditures 2022: 0.4% of GDP (2022 est.)
Military Expenditures 2021: 0.4% of GDP (2021 est.)
Military Expenditures 2020: 0.4% of GDP (2020 est.)
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Military Expenditures 2023: 0.4% of GDP (2023 est.)
Military Expenditures 2022: 0.4% of GDP (2022 est.)
Military Expenditures 2021: 0.4% of GDP (2021 est.)
Military Expenditures 2020: 0.4% of GDP (2020 est.)
Military and security service personnel strengths
approximately 20,000 active Armed Forces (2025)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions
the military is lightly armed with an inventory mostly comprised of older US equipment; in recent years, Guatemala has received small amounts of equipment from several countries, including Colombia, Spain, and the US (2024)
Reference: 2024Military service age and obligation
all male citizens 18-50 are eligible for military service; most of the force is volunteer; a selective draft system is employed, resulting in a small portion of 17-21 year-olds being conscripted; conscript service obligation varies from 12-24 months; women may volunteer (2023)
Reference: 2023Military deployments
180 Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) (2025)
Military - note
the military is responsible for maintaining the independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the honor of Guatemala, but has long focused on internal security; since the 2000s, the Guatemalan Government has used the military to support the National Civil Police in internal security operations (as permitted by the constitution) to combat organized crime, gang violence, and narco-trafficking; other responsibilities include border security, cybersecurity, and providing humanitarian assistance; it also participates in UN missions on a small scale and has a peacekeeping operations training command that offers training to regional countries; the military has security ties with regional partners such as Brazil, Colombia, El Salvador, and Honduras; cooperation with El Salvador and Honduras has included a combined police-military anti-gang task force to patrol border areas; it also has ties with the US, including joint training exercises and material assistance
the military held power during most of Guatemala’s 36-year civil war (1960-1996) and conducted a campaign of widespread violence and repression, particularly against the country’s majority indigenous population; more than 200,000 people were estimated to have been killed or disappeared during the conflict (2025)
Reference: 2025, 1996, 1960the military held power during most of Guatemala’s 36-year civil war (1960-1996) and conducted a campaign of widespread violence and repression, particularly against the country’s majority indigenous population; more than 200,000 people were estimated to have been killed or disappeared during the conflict (2025)
International Relations
International law organization participation
has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Diplomatic representation in the US
chief of mission: Ambassador Hugo Eduardo BETETA (since 17 June 2024)
chancery: 2220 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 745-4953
FAX: [1] (202) 745-1908
email address and website: embestadosunidos@minex.gob.gt
https://estadosunidos.minex.gob.gt/home/home.aspx
consulate(s) general: Atlanta, Chicago, Columbus (OH), Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, Nashville (TN), New York, Oklahoma City, Omaha (NE), Philadelphia, Phoenix, Providence (RI), Raleigh (NC), Rockville (MD), San Francisco, Seattle
consulate(s): Dallas, Del Rio (TX), Lake Worth (FL), McAllen (TX), Riverhead (NY), San Bernardino (CA), Tucson (AZ)
Reference: 2024, 1908chancery: 2220 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 745-4953
FAX: [1] (202) 745-1908
email address and website: embestadosunidos@minex.gob.gt
https://estadosunidos.minex.gob.gt/home/home.aspx
consulate(s) general: Atlanta, Chicago, Columbus (OH), Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, Nashville (TN), New York, Oklahoma City, Omaha (NE), Philadelphia, Phoenix, Providence (RI), Raleigh (NC), Rockville (MD), San Francisco, Seattle
consulate(s): Dallas, Del Rio (TX), Lake Worth (FL), McAllen (TX), Riverhead (NY), San Bernardino (CA), Tucson (AZ)
Diplomatic representation from the US
chief of mission: Ambassador Tobin BRADLEY (since 12 February 2024)
embassy: Boulevard Austriaco 11-51, Zone 16, Guatemala City
mailing address: 3190 Guatemala Place, Washington DC 20521-3190
telephone: [502] 2354-0000
FAX: [502] 2326-4654
email address and website: AmCitsGuatemala@state.gov
https://gt.usembassy.gov/
Reference: 2024embassy: Boulevard Austriaco 11-51, Zone 16, Guatemala City
mailing address: 3190 Guatemala Place, Washington DC 20521-3190
telephone: [502] 2354-0000
FAX: [502] 2326-4654
email address and website: AmCitsGuatemala@state.gov
https://gt.usembassy.gov/
International organization participation
ACS, BCIE, CACM, CD, CELAC, EITI (compliant country), FAO, G-24, G-77, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICCt (signatory), ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO (correspondent), ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), LAES, LAIA (observer), MIGA, MINUSTAH, MONUSCO, NAM, OAS, OPANAL, OPCW, Pacific Alliance (observer), PCA, Petrocaribe, SICA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIFIL, Union Latina, UNISFA, UNITAR, UNMISS, UNOCI, UNOOSA, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Treaties & Organisations
| Organisation | Status | Joined |
|---|---|---|
| United Nations (UN) | member | 1945-11-21 |
| World Trade Organization (WTO) | member | 1995-07-21 |
International law organization participation
has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
International organization participation
ACS, BCIE, CACM, CD, CELAC, EITI (compliant country), FAO, G-24, G-77, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICCt (signatory), ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO (correspondent), ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), LAES, LAIA (observer), MIGA, MINUSTAH, MONUSCO, NAM, OAS, OPANAL, OPCW, Pacific Alliance (observer), PCA, Petrocaribe, SICA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIFIL, Union Latina, UNISFA, UNITAR, UNMISS, UNOCI, UNOOSA, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Conflict & Security
Refugees and internally displaced persons
refugees: 4,676 (2024 est.)
IDPs: 572,813 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024IDPs: 572,813 (2024 est.)
Illicit drugs
USG identification: major illicit drug-producing and/or drug-transit country
major precursor-chemical producer (2025)
major precursor-chemical producer (2025)
Terrorist group(s)
La Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13)
note: note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in the Terrorism reference guide
note: note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in the Terrorism reference guide
Transportation & Logistics
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix
TG
Airports
58 (2025)
Heliports
2 (2025)
Railways
total: 800 km (2018)
narrow gauge: 800 km (2018) 0.914-m gauge
note: note: despite the existence of a railway network, all rail service was suspended in 2007 and no passenger or freight train currently runs in the country (2018)
Reference: 2018, 2007narrow gauge: 800 km (2018) 0.914-m gauge
note: note: despite the existence of a railway network, all rail service was suspended in 2007 and no passenger or freight train currently runs in the country (2018)
Merchant marine
total: 9 (2023)
by type: oil tanker 1, other 8
Reference: 2023by type: oil tanker 1, other 8
Ports
total ports: 3 (2024)
large: 0
medium: 0
small: 2
very small: 1
ports with oil terminals: 2
key ports: Puerto Barrios, Puerto Quetzal, Santo Tomas de Castilla
Reference: 2024large: 0
medium: 0
small: 2
very small: 1
ports with oil terminals: 2
key ports: Puerto Barrios, Puerto Quetzal, Santo Tomas de Castilla
Environment
Environmental issues
deforestation in the Peten rainforest; soil erosion; water pollution
International environmental agreements
party to: Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping-London Convention, Marine Dumping-London Protocol, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 2006, Wetlands
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Reference: 2006signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Climate
tropical; hot, humid in lowlands; cooler in highlands
Land use
agricultural land: 43% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 14.5% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 11% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 17.5% (2023 est.)
forest: 33.2% (2023 est.)
other: 23.7% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 14.5% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 11% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 17.5% (2023 est.)
forest: 33.2% (2023 est.)
other: 23.7% (2023 est.)
Urbanization
urban population: 53.1% of total population (2023)
rate of urbanization: 2.59% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Reference: 2023, 2020rate of urbanization: 2.59% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Carbon dioxide emissions
total emissions: 18.546 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from coal and metallurgical coke: 2.31 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from petroleum and other liquids: 16.232 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from consumed natural gas: 4,000 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023from coal and metallurgical coke: 2.31 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from petroleum and other liquids: 16.232 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from consumed natural gas: 4,000 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
Particulate matter emissions
21.8 micrograms per cubic meter (2019 est.)
Reference: 2019Waste and recycling
municipal solid waste generated annually: 2.757 million tons (2024 est.)
percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 10.4% (2022 est.)
Reference: 2024, 2022percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 10.4% (2022 est.)
Total water withdrawal
municipal: 835 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
industrial: 603.1 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
agricultural: 1.886 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022industrial: 603.1 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
agricultural: 1.886 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
Total renewable water resources
127.91 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022Communications & Media
Telephones - fixed lines
total subscriptions: 1.94 million (2023 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 11 (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 11 (2023 est.)
Broadcast media
4 privately owned national terrestrial TV channels dominate TV broadcasting; multi-channel satellite and cable services are available; 1 government-owned radio station and hundreds of privately owned radio stations (2019)
Reference: 2019Internet country code
.gt
Historical Trends
Population
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View Population data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 16,268,760 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | 16,567,357 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | 16,845,685 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | 17,103,803 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | 17,357,325 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | 17,598,650 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | 17,847,877 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | 18,124,838 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | 18,406,359 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | 18,687,881 | world_bank_wdi |
GDP (current US$)
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View GDP (current US$) data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | $66,053,408,206 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | $71,653,780,740 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | $73,328,356,008 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | $77,172,331,693 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | $77,719,468,248 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | $86,455,522,273 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | $95,609,727,056 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | $104,298,081,429 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | $113,215,575,151 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | $123,306,008,821 | world_bank_wdi |
International migrant stock (immigrants)
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View International migrant stock (immigrants) data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 84,311 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | 92,732 | world_bank_wdi |
International emigrant stock
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View International emigrant stock data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 1990 | 323,376 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 1995 | 429,957 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2000 | 545,695 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2005 | 737,245 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2010 | 919,782 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2015 | 1,067,787 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2020 | 1,282,668 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2024 | 1,460,232 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
Net migration
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View Net migration data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | -30,980 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | -42,779 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | -56,487 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | -57,746 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | -23,927 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | -29,908 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | -8,463 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | -8,940 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | -7,725 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | -7,959 | world_bank_wdi |
Sources & Methodology
Current statistical observations include their reference period and provenance. Reference fields from approved source datasets are attributed below. Missing information is left unknown rather than inferred.
| Indicator | Value | Period | Source | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 18,687,881 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| UN Population Division population estimate | 18,967,978 | 2026 | UN Population Division Data Portal | Estimated |
| Wikidata population (fallback) | 17,263,239 | 2018 | Wikidata | Reported |
| International migrant stock (immigrants) | 92,732 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| International migrant stock | 0.5% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| International emigrant stock | 1,460,232 | 2024 | UN DESA International Migrant Stock 2024 | Estimated |
| Net migration | -7,959 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Refugees from this country | 34,994 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Asylum seekers from this country | 138,420 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Freedom of expression & alternative information index | 0.839 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Government censorship effort — media | 1.727 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Harassment of journalists | 0.264 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Print/broadcast media critical of government | 1.668 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Range of perspectives in major media | 1.526 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Media bias | 1.589 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Media self-censorship | 1.830 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Same-sex sexual activity | Yes Legal since 1871; + UN decl. sign. | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Recognition of same-sex relationships | No Pending | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Same-sex marriage | No | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Same-sex adoption | No | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Sexual-orientation anti-discrimination law | Yes Bans some anti-gay discrimination | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Gender identity / expression law | No | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| GDP (current US$) | $123,306,008,821 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| GDP per capita (current US$) | $6,598 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| GDP growth | 4.3% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Inflation, consumer prices | 1.5% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Unemployment | 2.6% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Income level | Upper middle income | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Life expectancy at birth | 72.7 years | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Fertility rate | 2.3 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Urban population | 56.3% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Individuals using the Internet | 60.2% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Exports of goods and services | 15.6% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Imports of goods and services | 31.0% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Trade | 46.5% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Adult literacy rate | 82.1% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Secondary school enrolment, gross | 49.6% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Government education expenditure | 3.1% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Access to electricity | 90.9% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Electric power consumption | 733 kWh/person | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Renewable energy consumption | 62.1% | 2021 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Current health expenditure | 6.8% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Infant mortality rate | 17.2 per 1,000 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Forest area | 32.6% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Mobile cellular subscriptions | 112.5 per 100 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Fixed broadband subscriptions | 5.3 per 100 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Secure Internet servers | 109 per million | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Latitude | 14.6248° | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Longitude | -90.5328° | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Latitude (Wikidata) | 15.5000° | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Longitude (Wikidata) | -90.2500° | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Time zone | UTC−06:00, America/Guatemala | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Form of government | presidential system, representative democracy | current | Wikidata | Reported |
Data attribution
Credits below are generated from sources actually used by this country profile. Source-specific terms take precedence.
- CIA World Factbook, final 2025 country profile (structured via factbook.json). Accessed September 20, 2026. U.S. Government public-domain data; retained as a reference source where a newer approved field is not available. Source · Terms/licence
- United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division, International Migrant Stock 2024; data access/processing via Our World in Data. Accessed September 20, 2026. Underlying UN dataset used under CC BY 3.0 IGO. Source · Terms/licence
- United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division, World Population Prospects (WPP indicator 49) Accessed September 19, 2026. Used under CC BY 3.0 IGO; current-year WPP population values are presented as estimates/projections where applicable. Source · Terms/licence
- Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem), Country-Year Dataset v16 (variables: v2mebias, v2mecenefm, v2mecrit, v2meharjrn, v2merange, v2meslfcen, v2x_freexp_altinf) Accessed September 20, 2026. Used under CC BY-SA 4.0; V-Dem measures are expert-coded/modelled and no V-Dem endorsement is implied. Source · Terms/licence
- Wikidata structured data (CC0). Accessed September 20, 2026. Attribution is provided by Knelstrom for provenance although CC0 does not require it. Source · Terms/licence
- Wikipedia, “LGBTQ rights by country or territory” (source revision/data fields: Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Gender identity / expression law, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Recognition of same-sex relationships, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Same-sex adoption, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Same-sex marriage, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Same-sex sexual activity, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Sexual-orientation anti-discrimination law) Accessed September 20, 2026. Used under CC BY-SA 4.0. Knelstrom changes formatting and presents the imported material as a community-edited legal-status summary, not legal advice or a Knelstrom rights score. Source · Terms/licence
- World Bank, World Development Indicators (series: AG.LND.FRST.ZS, country_metadata, EG.ELC.ACCS.ZS, EG.FEC.RNEW.ZS, EG.USE.ELEC.KH.PC, FP.CPI.TOTL.ZG, IT.CEL.SETS.P2, IT.NET.BBND.P2, IT.NET.SECR.P6, IT.NET.USER.ZS, NE.EXP.GNFS.ZS, NE.IMP.GNFS.ZS, NE.TRD.GNFS.ZS, NY.GDP.MKTP.CD, NY.GDP.MKTP.KD.ZG, NY.GDP.PCAP.CD, SE.ADT.LITR.ZS, SE.SEC.ENRR, SE.XPD.TOTL.GD.ZS, SH.XPD.CHEX.GD.ZS, SL.UEM.TOTL.ZS, SM.POP.ASYS.EO, SM.POP.NETM, SM.POP.RHCR.EO, SM.POP.TOTL, SM.POP.TOTL.ZS, SP.DYN.IMRT.IN, SP.DYN.LE00.IN, SP.DYN.TFRT.IN, SP.POP.TOTL, SP.URB.TOTL.IN.ZS) Accessed September 20, 2026. Data used under CC BY 4.0; Knelstrom presentation/formatting may differ from the source. Source · Terms/licence
Knelstrom does not imply endorsement by any listed data provider.
Last automated statistical refresh: 2026-09-20 02:05:15