Malta Rate of Natural Increase

Malta’s rate of natural increase (RNI)—the difference between birth and death rates, excluding migration—is notably low and has been close to zero or even negative in recent years. This reflects Malta’s declining birth rate and aging population, a trend common in many Southern European countries. Compared to its closest neighbors, such as Italy and Tunisia, Malta’s RNI is more similar to Italy’s, which also experiences very low or negative natural increase due to low fertility and an aging demographic. In contrast, Tunisia, located just across the Mediterranean, maintains a higher RNI, driven by a younger population and higher birth rates. Thus, while Malta shares demographic challenges with other European nations, it contrasts sharply with North African neighbors where population growth from natural increase remains more robust.

Data from US Census International Database