Knelstrom Intelligence · World Factbook
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
CapitalKingstown
Population99,924
GDP$1.3bn
Area389 km²
RegionLatin America & Caribbean
Data sources current · last checked September 20, 2026 2:11 am
Country facts
Overview
Background
Resistance from native Caribs prevented colonization on Saint Vincent until 1719. France and England disputed the island for most of the 18th century, but it was ceded to England in 1783. The British prized Saint Vincent because of its fertile soil, which allowed for thriving slave-run plantations of sugar, coffee, indigo, tobacco, cotton, and cocoa. In 1834, the British abolished slavery. Immigration of indentured servants eased the ensuing labor shortage, as did subsequent immigrant waves from Portugal and East India. Conditions remained harsh for both former slaves and immigrant agricultural workers, however, as depressed world sugar prices kept the economy stagnant until the early 1900s. The economy then went into a period of decline, with many landowners abandoning their estates and leaving the land to be cultivated by liberated slaves.
Between 1960 and 1962, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines was a separate administrative unit of the Federation of the West Indies. Autonomy was granted in 1969 and independence in 1979. In 2021, the eruption of the La Soufrière volcano in the north of Saint Vincent destroyed much of Saint Vincent’s most productive agricultural lands. Unlike most of its tourism-dependent neighbors, the Vincentian economy is primarily agricultural.
Reference: 2021, 1979, 1969, 1962Between 1960 and 1962, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines was a separate administrative unit of the Federation of the West Indies. Autonomy was granted in 1969 and independence in 1979. In 2021, the eruption of the La Soufrière volcano in the north of Saint Vincent destroyed much of Saint Vincent’s most productive agricultural lands. Unlike most of its tourism-dependent neighbors, the Vincentian economy is primarily agricultural.
Geography
Location
Caribbean, islands between the Caribbean Sea and North Atlantic Ocean, north of Trinidad and Tobago
Map references
Central America and the Caribbean
Area
total: 389 sq km (Saint Vincent 344 sq km)
land: 389 sq km
water: 0 sq km
land: 389 sq km
water: 0 sq km
Area - comparative
twice the size of Washington, D.C.
Land boundaries
total: 0 km
Coastline
84 km
Maritime claims
territorial sea: 12 nm
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm
Climate
tropical; little seasonal temperature variation; rainy season (May to November)
Terrain
volcanic, mountainous
Elevation
highest point: La Soufriere 1,234 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
Natural resources
hydropower, arable land
Land use
agricultural land: 17.9% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 5.1% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 7.7% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 5.1% (2023 est.)
forest: 73.2% (2023 est.)
other: 8.8% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 5.1% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 7.7% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 5.1% (2023 est.)
forest: 73.2% (2023 est.)
other: 8.8% (2023 est.)
Irrigated land
10 sq km (2012)
Reference: 2012Population distribution
most of the population is concentrated in and around the capital of Kingstown
Natural hazards
hurricanes; La Soufrière volcano on the island of Saint Vincent is a constant threat
volcanism: La Soufrière (1,234 m) last erupted in 1979; the island of Saint Vincent is part of the volcanic-island arc of the Lesser Antilles that extends from Saba in the north to Grenada in the south
Reference: 1979volcanism: La Soufrière (1,234 m) last erupted in 1979; the island of Saint Vincent is part of the volcanic-island arc of the Lesser Antilles that extends from Saba in the north to Grenada in the south
Geography - note
the administration of the islands of the Grenadines group is divided between Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Grenada; Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is composed of 32 islands and cays
Population & Society
Nationality
noun: Saint Vincentian(s) or Vincentian(s)
adjective: Saint Vincentian or Vincentian
adjective: Saint Vincentian or Vincentian
Ethnic groups
African descent 71.2%, mixed 23%, Indigenous 3%, East Indian/Indian 1.1%, European 1.5%, other 0.2% (2012 est.)
Reference: 2012Languages
English, Vincentian Creole English, French patois
Religions
Protestant 75% (Pentecostal 27.6%, Anglican 13.9%, Seventh Day Adventist 11.6%, Baptist 8.9%, Methodist 8.7%, Evangelical 3.8%, Salvation Army 0.3%, Presbyterian/Congregational 0.3%), Roman Catholic 6.3%, Rastafarian 1.1%, Jehovah's Witness 0.8%, other 4.7%, none 7.5%, unspecified 4.7% (2012 est.)
Reference: 2012Age structure
0-14 years: 18.8% (male 9,527/female 9,353)
15-64 years: 68.2% (male 35,401/female 33,288)
65 years and over: 13% (2024 est.) (male 6,321/female 6,757)
Reference: 202415-64 years: 68.2% (male 35,401/female 33,288)
65 years and over: 13% (2024 est.) (male 6,321/female 6,757)
Dependency ratios
total dependency ratio: 46.5 (2024 est.)
youth dependency ratio: 27.5 (2024 est.)
elderly dependency ratio: 19 (2024 est.)
potential support ratio: 5.3 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024youth dependency ratio: 27.5 (2024 est.)
elderly dependency ratio: 19 (2024 est.)
potential support ratio: 5.3 (2024 est.)
Median age
total: 37.6 years (2024 est.)
male: 37.7 years
female: 37.4 years
Reference: 2024male: 37.7 years
female: 37.4 years
Population growth rate
-0.15% (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Birth rate
11.9 births/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Death rate
7.7 deaths/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Population distribution
most of the population is concentrated in and around the capital of Kingstown
Major urban areas - population
27,000 KINGSTOWN (capital) (2018)
Reference: 2018Sex ratio
at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.02 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 1.06 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.94 male(s)/female
total population: 1.04 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
Reference: 20240-14 years: 1.02 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 1.06 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.94 male(s)/female
total population: 1.04 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
Maternal mortality ratio
56 deaths/100,000 live births (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Gross reproduction rate
0.85 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Health expenditure
Health expenditure (as % of GDP): 5.4% of GDP (2021)
Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 8.6% of national budget (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022, 2021Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 8.6% of national budget (2022 est.)
Physician density
0.66 physicians/1,000 population (2012)
Reference: 2012Hospital bed density
4.2 beds/1,000 population (2021 est.)
Reference: 2021Sanitation facility access
improved: total: total: 90.2% of population
Obesity - adult prevalence rate
23.7% (2016)
Reference: 2016Alcohol consumption per capita
total: 7.48 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
beer: 2.52 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
wine: 0.24 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
spirits: 4.48 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
other alcohols: 0.23 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Reference: 2019beer: 2.52 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
wine: 0.24 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
spirits: 4.48 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
other alcohols: 0.23 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Currently married women (ages 15-49)
53.3% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education)
total: 15 years (2015 est.)
male: 14 years (2015 est.)
female: 15 years (2015 est.)
Reference: 2015male: 14 years (2015 est.)
female: 15 years (2015 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.
Government & Politics
| Office | Holder | Affiliation | From | Status | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Head of state | Charles III | — | 2022-09-08 | Current | Reported |
| Head of government | Godwin Friday | — | — | Current | Reported |
Country name
conventional long form: none
conventional short form: Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
etymology: explorer Christopher COLUMBUS named the island after Saint VINCENT of Saragossa because 22 January 1498, the day of discovery, was the saint's feast day
conventional short form: Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
etymology: explorer Christopher COLUMBUS named the island after Saint VINCENT of Saragossa because 22 January 1498, the day of discovery, was the saint's feast day
Capital
name: Kingstown
geographic coordinates: 13 08 N, 61 13 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
geographic coordinates: 13 08 N, 61 13 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Administrative divisions
6 parishes; Charlotte, Grenadines, Saint Andrew, Saint David, Saint George, Saint Patrick
Legal system
English common law
Constitution
history: previous 1969, 1975; latest drafted 26 July 1979, effective 27 October 1979 (The Saint Vincent Constitution Order 1979)
amendment process: proposed by the House of Assembly; passage requires at least two-thirds majority vote of the Assembly membership and assent of the governor general; passage of amendments to constitutional sections on fundamental rights and freedoms, citizen protections, various government functions and authorities, and constitutional amendment procedures requires approval by the Assembly membership, approval in a referendum of at least two thirds of the votes cast, and assent of the governor general
Reference: 1979, 1975, 1969amendment process: proposed by the House of Assembly; passage requires at least two-thirds majority vote of the Assembly membership and assent of the governor general; passage of amendments to constitutional sections on fundamental rights and freedoms, citizen protections, various government functions and authorities, and constitutional amendment procedures requires approval by the Assembly membership, approval in a referendum of at least two thirds of the votes cast, and assent of the governor general
International law organization participation
has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Citizenship
citizenship by birth: yes
citizenship by descent only: at least one parent must be a citizen of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
dual citizenship recognized: yes
residency requirement for naturalization: 7 years
citizenship by descent only: at least one parent must be a citizen of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
dual citizenship recognized: yes
residency requirement for naturalization: 7 years
Suffrage
18 years of age; universal
Executive branch
chief of state: King CHARLES III (since 8 September 2022); represented by Governor General Susan DOUGAN (since 1 August 2019)
head of government: Prime Minister Godwin FRIDAY (since 28 November 2025)
cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister
election/appointment process: the monarchy is hereditary; governor general appointed by the monarch; following legislative elections, the governor general usually appoints the leader of the majority party or majority coalition as prime minister; deputy prime minister also appointed by governor general on the advice of the prime minister
Reference: 2025, 2022, 2019head of government: Prime Minister Godwin FRIDAY (since 28 November 2025)
cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister
election/appointment process: the monarchy is hereditary; governor general appointed by the monarch; following legislative elections, the governor general usually appoints the leader of the majority party or majority coalition as prime minister; deputy prime minister also appointed by governor general on the advice of the prime minister
Legislative branch
legislature name: House of Assembly
legislative structure: unicameral
number of seats: 22 (15 directly elected; 6 appointed)
electoral system: plurality/majority
scope of elections: full renewal
term in office: 5 years
most recent election date: 11/27/2025
parties elected and seats per party: United Labour Party (ULP) (9); New Democratic Party (NDP) (6)
percentage of women in chamber: 21.7%
expected date of next election: November 2030
Reference: 2030, 2025legislative structure: unicameral
number of seats: 22 (15 directly elected; 6 appointed)
electoral system: plurality/majority
scope of elections: full renewal
term in office: 5 years
most recent election date: 11/27/2025
parties elected and seats per party: United Labour Party (ULP) (9); New Democratic Party (NDP) (6)
percentage of women in chamber: 21.7%
expected date of next election: November 2030
Judicial branch
highest court(s): the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (ECSC) is the superior court of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States; the ECSC is headquartered on St. Lucia and consists of the Court of Appeal -- headed by the chief justice and 4 judges -- and the High Court with 18 judges; the Court of Appeal travels to member states on a schedule to hear appeals from the High Court and subordinate courts; Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is a member of the Caribbean Court of Justice
judge selection and term of office: chief justice of Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court appointed by the British monarch; other justices and judges appointed by the Judicial and Legal Services Commission, an independent body of judicial officials; Court of Appeal justices appointed for life with mandatory retirement at age 65; High Court judges appointed for life with mandatory retirement at age 62
subordinate courts: magistrates' courts
judge selection and term of office: chief justice of Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court appointed by the British monarch; other justices and judges appointed by the Judicial and Legal Services Commission, an independent body of judicial officials; Court of Appeal justices appointed for life with mandatory retirement at age 65; High Court judges appointed for life with mandatory retirement at age 62
subordinate courts: magistrates' courts
Political parties
New Democratic Party or NDP
SVG Green Party or SVGP
Unity Labor Party or ULP (formed in 1994 by the coalition of Saint Vincent Labor Party or SVLP and the Movement for National Unity or MNU)
Reference: 1994SVG Green Party or SVGP
Unity Labor Party or ULP (formed in 1994 by the coalition of Saint Vincent Labor Party or SVLP and the Movement for National Unity or MNU)
Diplomatic representation in the US
chief of mission: Ambassador Lou-Anne Gaylene GILCHRIST (since 18 January 2017)
chancery: 1627 K Street, NW, Suite 704, Washington, DC 20006
telephone: [1] (202) 364-6730
FAX: [1] (202) 364-6736
email address and website: mail@embsvg.com
http://wa.embassy.gov.vc/washington/
consulate(s) general: New York
Reference: 2017chancery: 1627 K Street, NW, Suite 704, Washington, DC 20006
telephone: [1] (202) 364-6730
FAX: [1] (202) 364-6736
email address and website: mail@embsvg.com
http://wa.embassy.gov.vc/washington/
consulate(s) general: New York
Diplomatic representation from the US
embassy: the US does not have an embassy in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines; the US Ambassador to Barbados is accredited to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
International organization participation
ACP, ACS, AOSIS, C, Caricom, CDB, CELAC, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ISO (subscriber), ITU, MIGA, NAM, OAS, OECS, OPANAL, OPCW, Petrocaribe, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WTO
Independence
27 October 1979 (from the UK)
Reference: 1979National holiday
Independence Day, 27 October (1979)
Reference: 1979Flag
description: three vertical bands of blue (left side), gold (double-width), and green; the gold band has three green diamonds arranged in a "V" pattern that stands for "Vincent"
meaning: the diamonds represent the islands as "the Gems of the Antilles" and are set slightly lowered in the gold band to reflect the country's position in the Antilles; blue stands for the tropical sky and sea, yellow for the sand, and green for vegetation
meaning: the diamonds represent the islands as "the Gems of the Antilles" and are set slightly lowered in the gold band to reflect the country's position in the Antilles; blue stands for the tropical sky and sea, yellow for the sand, and green for vegetation
National symbol(s)
Saint Vincent parrot
National color(s)
blue, gold, green
National anthem(s)
title: "God Save the King"
lyrics/music: unknown
history: in use since 1745
lyrics/music: unknown
history: in use since 1745
Government & Official Links
| Institution | Official website | X / Twitter | Verification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saint Vincent and the Grenadines 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| House of Assembly of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | — | 21 | — |
Economy
Economic overview
upper middle-income Caribbean island economy; key agriculture and tourism sectors; environmentally fragile; diversifying economy across services, science and knowledge, and creative industries; CARICOM member and US Caribbean Basin Initiative beneficiary
Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2024: $1.883 billion (2024 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2023: $1.809 billion (2023 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2022: $1.718 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2023: $1.809 billion (2023 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2022: $1.718 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Real GDP per capita
Real GDP per capita 2024: $18,700 (2024 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2023: $17,900 (2023 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2022: $16,800 (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Real GDP per capita 2023: $17,900 (2023 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2022: $16,800 (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
GDP - composition, by sector of origin
agriculture: 3.5% (2024 est.)
industry: 15.4% (2024 est.)
services: 66.4% (2024 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
Reference: 2024industry: 15.4% (2024 est.)
services: 66.4% (2024 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
Agricultural products
bananas, root vegetables, plantains, spices, coconuts, fruits, apples, vegetables, mangoes/guavas, sweet potatoes (2023)
note: note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
Reference: 2023note: note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
Industries
tourism; food processing, cement, furniture, clothing, starch
Industrial production growth rate
7.3% (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
52,100 (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: 41.4% (2024 est.)
male: 41.4% (2024 est.)
female: 41.4% (2024 est.)
note: note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Reference: 2024male: 41.4% (2024 est.)
female: 41.4% (2024 est.)
note: note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Remittances
Remittances 2024: 8.2% of GDP (2024 est.)
Remittances 2023: 8.5% of GDP (2023 est.)
Remittances 2022: 9% of GDP (2022 est.)
note: note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Remittances 2023: 8.5% of GDP (2023 est.)
Remittances 2022: 9% of GDP (2022 est.)
note: note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
Budget
revenues: $226.404 million (2017 est.)
expenditures: $208.744 million (2017 est.)
note: note: central government revenues and expenses (excluding grants/extrabudgetary units/social security funds) converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Reference: 2017expenditures: $208.744 million (2017 est.)
note: note: central government revenues and expenses (excluding grants/extrabudgetary units/social security funds) converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Public debt
Public debt 2016: 82.8% of GDP (2016 est.)
Reference: 2016Taxes and other revenues
23.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
note: note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDP
Reference: 2017note: note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDP
Current account balance
Current account balance 2024: -$156.589 million (2024 est.)
Current account balance 2023: -$180.43 million (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: -$199.727 million (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Current account balance 2023: -$180.43 million (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: -$199.727 million (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Exports
Exports 2024: $425.182 million (2024 est.)
Exports 2023: $345.098 million (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $278.292 million (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Exports 2023: $345.098 million (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $278.292 million (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Exports - partners
Croatia 16%, Barbados 14%, USA 10%, St. Lucia 10%, St. Kitts & Nevis 8% (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
ships, wheat flours, animal food, shellfish, construction vehicles (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: $641.179 million (2024 est.)
Imports 2023: $588.865 million (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $540.833 million (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Imports 2023: $588.865 million (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $540.833 million (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Imports - partners
USA 37%, Italy 7%, Trinidad & Tobago 7%, China 6%, UK 6% (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
ships, refined petroleum, wheat, coal, poultry (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: $316.824 million (2024 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2023: $280.564 million (2023 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2022: $320.193 million (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: $280.564 million (2023 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2022: $320.193 million (2022 est.)
note: note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
Debt - external
Debt - external 2023: $456.971 million (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: East Caribbean dollars (XCD) per US dollar -
Exchange rates 2024: 2.7 (2024 est.)
Exchange rates 2023: 2.7 (2023 est.)
Exchange rates 2022: 2.7 (2022 est.)
Exchange rates 2021: 2.7 (2021 est.)
Exchange rates 2020: 2.7 (2020 est.)
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Exchange rates 2024: 2.7 (2024 est.)
Exchange rates 2023: 2.7 (2023 est.)
Exchange rates 2022: 2.7 (2022 est.)
Exchange rates 2021: 2.7 (2021 est.)
Exchange rates 2020: 2.7 (2020 est.)
Trade
Current account balance
Current account balance 2024: -$156.589 million (2024 est.)
Current account balance 2023: -$180.43 million (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: -$199.727 million (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Current account balance 2023: -$180.43 million (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: -$199.727 million (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Exports
Exports 2024: $425.182 million (2024 est.)
Exports 2023: $345.098 million (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $278.292 million (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Exports 2023: $345.098 million (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $278.292 million (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Exports - partners
Croatia 16%, Barbados 14%, USA 10%, St. Lucia 10%, St. Kitts & Nevis 8% (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
ships, wheat flours, animal food, shellfish, construction vehicles (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: $641.179 million (2024 est.)
Imports 2023: $588.865 million (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $540.833 million (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Imports 2023: $588.865 million (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $540.833 million (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Imports - partners
USA 37%, Italy 7%, Trinidad & Tobago 7%, China 6%, UK 6% (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
ships, refined petroleum, wheat, coal, poultry (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: 55,000 kW (2023 est.)
consumption: 140.316 million kWh (2023 est.)
transmission/distribution losses: 10.868 million kWh (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023consumption: 140.316 million kWh (2023 est.)
transmission/distribution losses: 10.868 million kWh (2023 est.)
Electricity generation sources
fossil fuels: 86.1% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
solar: 1.3% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
hydroelectricity: 12.6% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023solar: 1.3% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
hydroelectricity: 12.6% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Coal
exports: 8 metric tons (2023 est.)
imports: 8,000 metric tons (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023imports: 8,000 metric tons (2023 est.)
Petroleum
refined petroleum consumption: 2,000 bbl/day (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Energy consumption per capita
Total energy consumption per capita 2023: 37.253 million Btu/person (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Infrastructure
Telephones - fixed lines
total subscriptions: 10,000 (2023 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 10 (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 10 (2023 est.)
Health
Maternal mortality ratio
56 deaths/100,000 live births (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Health expenditure
Health expenditure (as % of GDP): 5.4% of GDP (2021)
Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 8.6% of national budget (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022, 2021Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 8.6% of national budget (2022 est.)
Physician density
0.66 physicians/1,000 population (2012)
Reference: 2012Hospital bed density
4.2 beds/1,000 population (2021 est.)
Reference: 2021Obesity - adult prevalence rate
23.7% (2016)
Reference: 2016Education
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education)
total: 15 years (2015 est.)
male: 14 years (2015 est.)
female: 15 years (2015 est.)
Reference: 2015male: 14 years (2015 est.)
female: 15 years (2015 est.)
Rights, Freedoms & Society
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
English common law
Judicial branch
highest court(s): the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (ECSC) is the superior court of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States; the ECSC is headquartered on St. Lucia and consists of the Court of Appeal -- headed by the chief justice and 4 judges -- and the High Court with 18 judges; the Court of Appeal travels to member states on a schedule to hear appeals from the High Court and subordinate courts; Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is a member of the Caribbean Court of Justice
judge selection and term of office: chief justice of Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court appointed by the British monarch; other justices and judges appointed by the Judicial and Legal Services Commission, an independent body of judicial officials; Court of Appeal justices appointed for life with mandatory retirement at age 65; High Court judges appointed for life with mandatory retirement at age 62
subordinate courts: magistrates' courts
judge selection and term of office: chief justice of Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court appointed by the British monarch; other justices and judges appointed by the Judicial and Legal Services Commission, an independent body of judicial officials; Court of Appeal justices appointed for life with mandatory retirement at age 65; High Court judges appointed for life with mandatory retirement at age 62
subordinate courts: magistrates' courts
Military & Security
Military and security forces
no regular military forces; Ministry of National Security: Royal Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVPF) (2025)
Military - note
the country has been a member of the Caribbean Regional Security System (RSS) since its creation in 1982; RSS signatories (Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and Saint Lucia) agreed to prepare contingency plans and assist one another, on request, in national emergencies, prevention of smuggling, search and rescue, immigration control, fishery protection, customs and excise control, maritime policing duties, protection of off-shore installations, pollution control, national and other disasters, and threats to national security (2025)
Reference: 2025, 1982International Relations
International law organization participation
has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Diplomatic representation in the US
chief of mission: Ambassador Lou-Anne Gaylene GILCHRIST (since 18 January 2017)
chancery: 1627 K Street, NW, Suite 704, Washington, DC 20006
telephone: [1] (202) 364-6730
FAX: [1] (202) 364-6736
email address and website: mail@embsvg.com
http://wa.embassy.gov.vc/washington/
consulate(s) general: New York
Reference: 2017chancery: 1627 K Street, NW, Suite 704, Washington, DC 20006
telephone: [1] (202) 364-6730
FAX: [1] (202) 364-6736
email address and website: mail@embsvg.com
http://wa.embassy.gov.vc/washington/
consulate(s) general: New York
Diplomatic representation from the US
embassy: the US does not have an embassy in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines; the US Ambassador to Barbados is accredited to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
International organization participation
ACP, ACS, AOSIS, C, Caricom, CDB, CELAC, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ISO (subscriber), ITU, MIGA, NAM, OAS, OECS, OPANAL, OPCW, Petrocaribe, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WTO
Treaties & Organisations
| Organisation | Status | Joined |
|---|---|---|
| Commonwealth of Nations (Commonwealth) | member | 1979-00-00 |
| United Nations (UN) | member | 1980-09-16 |
| World Trade Organization (WTO) | member | — |
International law organization participation
has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
International organization participation
ACP, ACS, AOSIS, C, Caricom, CDB, CELAC, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ISO (subscriber), ITU, MIGA, NAM, OAS, OECS, OPANAL, OPCW, Petrocaribe, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WTO
Transportation & Logistics
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix
J8
Airports
5 (2025)
Merchant marine
total: 830 (2023)
by type: bulk carrier 30, container ship 18, general cargo 137, oil tanker 16, other 629
Reference: 2023by type: bulk carrier 30, container ship 18, general cargo 137, oil tanker 16, other 629
Ports
total ports: 1 (2024)
large: 0
medium: 0
small: 1
very small: 0
ports with oil terminals: 1
key ports: Kingstown
Reference: 2024large: 0
medium: 0
small: 1
very small: 0
ports with oil terminals: 1
key ports: Kingstown
Environment
Environmental issues
pollution of coastal waters and shorelines from boats; poor land-use planning; deforestation; watershed management; squatter settlement control
International environmental agreements
party to: 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, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Whaling
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Climate
tropical; little seasonal temperature variation; rainy season (May to November)
Land use
agricultural land: 17.9% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 5.1% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 7.7% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 5.1% (2023 est.)
forest: 73.2% (2023 est.)
other: 8.8% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 5.1% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 7.7% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 5.1% (2023 est.)
forest: 73.2% (2023 est.)
other: 8.8% (2023 est.)
Urbanization
urban population: 54.3% of total population (2023)
rate of urbanization: 0.94% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Reference: 2023, 2020rate of urbanization: 0.94% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Carbon dioxide emissions
total emissions: 268,000 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from coal and metallurgical coke: 19,000 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from petroleum and other liquids: 249,000 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023from coal and metallurgical coke: 19,000 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from petroleum and other liquids: 249,000 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
Particulate matter emissions
9.5 micrograms per cubic meter (2019 est.)
Reference: 2019Waste and recycling
municipal solid waste generated annually: 31,600 tons (2024 est.)
percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 13.3% (2022 est.)
Reference: 2024, 2022percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 13.3% (2022 est.)
Total water withdrawal
municipal: 8.5 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
industrial: 2,000 cubic meters (2022 est.)
agricultural: 0 cubic meters (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022industrial: 2,000 cubic meters (2022 est.)
agricultural: 0 cubic meters (2022 est.)
Total renewable water resources
100 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022Communications & Media
Telephones - fixed lines
total subscriptions: 10,000 (2023 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 10 (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 10 (2023 est.)
Broadcast media
St. Vincent and the Grenadines Broadcasting Corporation operates 1 TV station and 5 repeater stations that provide near total coverage to the multi-island state; multi-channel cable TV service available; a partially government-funded national radio service broadcasts on 1 station and has 2 repeater stations; about a dozen privately owned radio stations and repeater stations
Internet country code
.vc
Historical Trends
Population
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View Population data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 106,349 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | 105,663 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | 104,926 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | 104,167 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | 103,526 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | 102,841 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | 102,046 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | 101,323 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | 100,616 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | 99,924 | 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 | $814,303,704 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | $844,040,741 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | $884,329,630 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | $910,481,481 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | $864,566,667 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | $888,677,778 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | $989,188,889 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | $1,072,237,037 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | $1,157,207,407 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | $1,255,222,222 | 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 | 4,738 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | 4,820 | 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 | 23,344 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 1995 | 24,675 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2000 | 25,484 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2005 | 26,574 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2010 | 26,840 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2015 | 29,222 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2020 | 30,568 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2024 | 35,264 | 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 | -1,089 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | -1,057 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | -1,026 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | -982 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | -493 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | -851 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | -826 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | -784 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | -737 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | -714 | 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 | 99,924 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| UN Population Division population estimate | 99,245 | 2026 | UN Population Division Data Portal | Estimated |
| Wikidata population (fallback) | 109,897 | 2017 | Wikidata | Reported |
| International migrant stock (immigrants) | 4,820 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| International migrant stock | 4.8% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| International emigrant stock | 35,264 | 2024 | UN DESA International Migrant Stock 2024 | Estimated |
| Net migration | -714 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Refugees hosted | 0 | 2022 | UNHCR Refugee Population Statistics | Verified |
| Asylum seekers hosted | 0 | 2022 | UNHCR Refugee Population Statistics | Verified |
| Refugees from this country | 194 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Asylum seekers from this country | 129 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Same-sex sexual activity | No Illegal since 1989; Penalty: Fine and/or 10-year prison sentence (Not enforced). Legalization proposed | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Recognition of same-sex relationships | No | 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 |
| Open military service | Has no military | 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 |
| GDP (current US$) | $1,255,222,222 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| GDP per capita (current US$) | $12,562 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| GDP growth | 3.4% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Inflation, consumer prices | 0.8% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Unemployment | 18.0% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Income level | Upper middle income | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Life expectancy at birth | 71.4 years | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Fertility rate | 1.8 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Urban population | 48.0% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Individuals using the Internet | 76.2% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Adult literacy rate | 95.6% | 1970 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Secondary school enrolment, gross | 124.9% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Government education expenditure | 6.5% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Access to electricity | 100.0% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Renewable energy consumption | 5.1% | 2022 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Current health expenditure | 4.4% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Infant mortality rate | 10.2 per 1,000 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Forest area | 73.2% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Mobile cellular subscriptions | 108.4 per 100 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Fixed broadband subscriptions | 29.5 per 100 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Secure Internet servers | 268 per million | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Latitude | 13.2035° | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Longitude | -61.2653° | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Latitude (Wikidata) | 13.0139° | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Longitude (Wikidata) | -61.2296° | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Time zone | UTC−04:00, America/St_Vincent | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Form of government | constitutional monarchy | 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
- UNHCR Refugee Population Statistics Database. Accessed September 19, 2026. Used under CC BY 4.0 except where a dataset identifies a different source or licence. Source · Terms/licence
- Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem), Country-Year Dataset v16 (variables: availability) 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 — Open military service, 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, FP.CPI.TOTL.ZG, IT.CEL.SETS.P2, IT.NET.BBND.P2, IT.NET.SECR.P6, IT.NET.USER.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 02:10:30