Tuvalu Rate of Natural Increase

Tuvalu’s rate of natural increase (RNI)—the difference between its crude birth rate and crude death rate—remains modest compared to some of its Pacific neighbors. As of recent estimates, Tuvalu’s RNI hovers around 1.2% per year, reflecting a relatively low birth rate and a moderate death rate, partly due to limited healthcare resources and significant out-migration. In contrast, neighboring countries like Kiribati and the Solomon Islands exhibit higher RNIs, often exceeding 2%, driven by higher fertility rates and younger populations. Meanwhile, Fiji, with its more developed infrastructure and lower fertility, has an RNI similar to or slightly lower than Tuvalu’s. Thus, while Tuvalu’s natural population growth is positive, it is restrained compared to some Pacific Island neighbors, and its overall population growth is further dampened by emigration trends.

Data from US Census International Database