FIJI’S population is living longer, but an ageing population is contributing to a rise in the country’s crude death rate.
University of the South Pacific lecturer in Population and Demography Dr Sumeet Lal said life expectancy at birth had increased from approximately 62 years in the late 20th century to 67.5 years in 2024.
However, the crude death rate increased from approximately 7.5 deaths per 1000 population in 1980 to 9.5 deaths per 1000 in 2024.
Dr Lal said the rise did not necessarily indicate worsening health outcomes.
“While this may appear counterintuitive, it largely reflects Fiji’s aging population,” he said.
“As the share of older persons increases, so does the likelihood of deaths occurring within the population, resulting in higher crude death rates despite improvements in life expectancy and overall health outcomes.”
Fiji’s changing age structure is evident in the rising median age.
The median age increased from 18.3 years in 1980 to 21.4 years in 2000 and 27.7 years in 2023.
At the same time, the proportion of people under 18 fell from approximately 47 per cent in 1980 to 32.7 per cent in 2023.
Dr Lal said the country’s mortality indicators provided further evidence of the demographic transition.
“Life expectancy at birth has improved steadily over time,” he said, noting improvements in health outcomes and living conditions.
Infant mortality has also declined substantially compared with levels recorded during the late 20th century, although Dr Lal said recent increases warranted continued monitoring.
He said Fiji’s demographic transition would require greater attention to healthcare and social protection.
