Uruguay Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Uruguay, State of Southeastern South America; 176,220 km², 3.4 million residents (2019).Uruguay borders Brazil in the north, the Uruguay River forms in the west border with Argentina, and in the south and south-east Uruguay has a coast towards the Atlantic. The capital is Montevideo (1.3 million residents, 2012).

Country facts

Republic of Oriental del Uruguay / Republic of Uruguay
Country abbreviation: UY
Area: 176 220 km²
Population (2019): 3.4 million residents
Capital: Montevideo
Main language: Spanish
State: Republic
Head of State and Head of Government: Luis Lacalle Pou (President)
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 17,278
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 15,650
Currency unit: 1 peso = 100 cents
Currency code: UYU
Country Number (Telephony): 598
Internet Domain Name: uy
Time difference compared to Sweden: −4
National Day: August 25 (Declaration of Independence, 1825)

Nature

Land use: forest (15%), agricultural land (8%), other (77%)
Highest mountain: Catedral (513 m above sea level)
Longest river: Uruguay River (2,188 km)

Population

Population density (2019): 19 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 0.4%; birth rate 13 ‰, death rate 9 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (20%), 15-64 (66%), 65- (14%)
Average life expectancy (2019): men 74 years, women 81 years
Infant mortality (2019): 9 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 4 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.804 (place 55 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 95%
Most populous city (2013): Montevideo (1.3 million residents)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (6%), industry (24%), service (70%)
Exports (2017): USD 11,410 million
Main export products: meat, soybeans, cellulose
Main exporting countries: China, Brazil, USA
Imports (2017): US $ 8,607 million
Main import products: oil and oil products, vehicles, mobile phones
Main importing countries: China, Brazil, Argentina
Railway network (2016): 1 600 km

Geography of Uruguay

Location

Uruguay is a small, landlocked country located in the southeastern part of South America. It is bordered by Brazil to the north, Argentina to the west, and the South Atlantic Ocean to the south and southeast. The country covers an area of about 176,215 square kilometers (68,037 square miles), making it the second-smallest country in South America, after Suriname. Its location provides Uruguay with a strategic advantage in the region, as it is positioned between two large and economically significant countries, Brazil and Argentina. The capital city of Uruguay is Montevideo, located on the country’s southern coast along the Rio de la Plata estuary.

Topography

Uruguay’s topography is largely composed of rolling plains and low hills, making it relatively flat compared to its neighbors. The country is divided into three main regions: the coastal plains, the central plateau, and the low-lying areas of the eastern region. Uruguay’s highest point, the Cerro Catedral, reaches 514 meters (1,690 feet) above sea level, and the overall elevation across the country is relatively low. The landscape is dotted with grasslands and small forests, particularly in the interior.

The country is also home to several rivers and estuaries, the most important of which is the Rio de la Plata, which serves as a major waterway for Uruguay’s economy. The Uruguay River forms part of the western border with Argentina, while the Paraná River to the northeast also influences the geography of the region. Uruguay’s coastline, although relatively short, is characterized by sandy beaches and natural harbors, which support the country’s fishing and tourism industries.

Natural Resources

Uruguay’s natural resources include fertile land, renewable water sources, and a favorable climate for agriculture. The country has extensive arable land, and its primary agricultural exports include beef, soybeans, rice, and dairy products. Uruguay is renowned for its high-quality beef, which is a significant contributor to its economy and international trade.

The country also has a growing renewable energy sector, with wind, solar, and hydropower contributing to much of its electricity generation. Uruguay is seen as a leader in renewable energy in South America, with a large portion of its electricity needs being met through wind and solar power. The country’s forests and fertile lands also support timber and paper industries. Additionally, Uruguay’s extensive coastline provides it with fish and seafood resources, with fish farming becoming increasingly important to the economy.

Climate of Uruguay

General Climate

Uruguay experiences a temperate climate, characterized by mild to warm summers and cool winters. The country is influenced by the South Atlantic Ocean, which moderates its climate, preventing extreme temperatures. The average annual temperature ranges between 17°C (63°F) and 19°C (66°F), with regional variations. The coastal areas tend to be milder than the inland regions, especially in the winter months.

Summers (December to February) in Uruguay are generally warm, with temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F), although heatwaves can push the temperatures higher. Winters (June to August) are cooler, with daytime temperatures typically between 10°C (50°F) and 15°C (59°F). Frost is possible in the interior during winter, but snow is extremely rare.

Rainfall Patterns

Uruguay’s rainfall is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, though the wettest months are typically from October to April. The central and eastern parts of the country receive the most precipitation, while the western regions are drier. Average annual rainfall ranges from 900 mm to 1,500 mm (35 to 59 inches) depending on the region, with the southeast receiving the most rain.

Rainfall tends to be heavier in the summer months, especially during thunderstorms. The country’s well-distributed rainfall supports its agriculture, making Uruguay one of the most important agricultural producers in the region. However, droughts are not uncommon, particularly in the western part of the country, where water availability can be a limiting factor for farming.

People of Uruguay

Population and Ethnic Composition

Uruguay has a population of about 3.5 million people, making it one of the least populous countries in South America. The population is predominantly of European descent, with the majority of Uruguayans tracing their ancestry to immigrants from Spain and Italy, followed by smaller numbers from Germany, France, and other European countries. There is also a small indigenous population, though the majority of indigenous groups were significantly reduced during the colonial period.

In recent decades, there has been a slow but steady increase in the number of immigrants from neighboring countries, particularly from Argentina and Brazil. These populations have brought cultural influences and contributed to the country’s multicultural identity. Despite its small size, Uruguay has one of the highest standards of living in Latin America and is known for its progressive social policies and high levels of human development.

Language

Spanish is the official language of Uruguay, and it is spoken by virtually all of the population. The Spanish spoken in Uruguay is influenced by both European Spanish and the Italian dialects brought by Italian immigrants. This influence is especially noticeable in vocabulary, expressions, and accents.

In addition to Spanish, Portuguese is spoken by a small portion of the population, particularly in the northern areas near the Brazilian border. Uruguay also has a small number of speakers of indigenous languages, particularly in relation to the country’s original indigenous groups, though these languages are nearly extinct.

Religion

Uruguay is one of the most secular countries in Latin America, with a large proportion of the population identifying as non-religious or agnostic. The majority of Uruguayans, however, are nominally Roman Catholic, a reflection of the country’s historical ties to Spain during the colonial era. Despite this, the country has a relatively low rate of religious practice, and Catholicism is more of a cultural heritage than a central aspect of everyday life.

Protestantism has a smaller presence in the country, particularly among certain immigrant communities. There are also small Jewish, Muslim, and other religious minorities in Uruguay, but these groups make up only a small fraction of the population.

Economy of Uruguay

Agriculture

Agriculture is one of the cornerstones of Uruguay’s economy, and the country is one of the world’s largest producers of beef, rice, and soybeans. Uruguay’s beef industry is internationally renowned for its high quality, and the country is a significant exporter of beef, particularly to markets in the European Union, the United States, and Russia. In addition to beef, Uruguay is also a major exporter of dairy products, wool, and grains, making agriculture a major contributor to the country’s GDP.

The agricultural sector is supported by fertile land, favorable climatic conditions, and advanced farming practices. Uruguay is known for its sustainable agricultural practices, with many farmers employing environmentally friendly methods that reduce the impact of farming on the land. The country’s relatively small population compared to its vast agricultural lands allows for a high output in food production, especially in terms of exports.

Industry and Manufacturing

Uruguay has a diversified industrial sector, though it remains relatively small compared to the agricultural and services sectors. The country’s manufacturing base includes food processing, textiles, chemicals, and paper products. Uruguay has a well-established food processing industry, especially in relation to meat, dairy, and beverages, which are important exports.

The country has been diversifying its industrial base in recent years, particularly in the areas of renewable energy, biotechnology, and information technology. Uruguay has invested heavily in its renewable energy infrastructure, and the country has become a regional leader in wind and solar energy production, with over 90% of its electricity coming from renewable sources.

Additionally, Uruguay has a strong presence in the financial services sector, with a growing number of banks, insurance companies, and investment firms. The country’s well-regulated financial system and stable economy have made it an attractive destination for foreign investment.

Services and Tourism

The service sector has grown rapidly in recent years and is a significant contributor to the country’s GDP. The finance and insurance industries, along with retail and education services, are expanding, especially in the capital, Montevideo. Uruguay is increasingly becoming a regional hub for businesses looking to invest in Latin America due to its strong regulatory framework and skilled labor force.

Tourism is another important sector in the Uruguayan economy. The country’s coastal cities, such as Punta del Este, are renowned for their beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and vibrant nightlife, attracting visitors from both Latin America and abroad. Uruguay also benefits from cultural tourism, with attractions such as the historic quarter of Colonia del Sacramento, a UNESCO World Heritage site, drawing tourists interested in the country’s colonial past.

Economic Challenges

Despite Uruguay’s strong economic performance in recent years, it faces several challenges. The country is highly dependent on exports, particularly in agriculture and livestock, making it vulnerable to fluctuations in global commodity prices. Additionally, Uruguay’s small size and limited market make it dependent on trade agreements with larger countries, particularly Brazil and Argentina, with whom it shares regional economic ties.

The country also faces challenges related to inequality, as income distribution remains uneven. While Uruguay has made significant strides in social development and poverty reduction, there are still disparities between urban and rural areas, particularly in terms of access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities.

Government of Uruguay

Political System

Uruguay is a constitutional democracy with a multi-party system. The President of Uruguay is both the head of state and head of government, and the position is elected every five years by popular vote. The political system is characterized by a separation of powers, with the executive, legislative, and judicial branches working independently of each other.

The Uruguayan legislature, known as the General Assembly, consists of two houses: the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate. The Chamber of Deputies has 99 members, while the Senate has 30 members. Members of both houses are elected through a proportional representation system, ensuring broad representation of different political parties.

Uruguay is known for its strong democratic institutions, and the country consistently ranks high in terms of political stability and democratic governance. Uruguay’s government is characterized by transparency, respect for human rights, and a strong rule of law, which have contributed to its reputation as one of the most stable and developed countries in Latin America.

Political History

Uruguay’s political history has been shaped by periods of democratic rule, military dictatorship, and social reform. The country has experienced periods of political instability, particularly in the mid-20th century when military regimes took power in neighboring countries. However, Uruguay has maintained a strong democratic tradition, with regular elections and peaceful transitions of power.

Uruguay’s history of social reform has made it a leader in progressive policies in the region. In the early 20th century, the country implemented progressive labor laws, social welfare programs, and universal suffrage for women. More recently, Uruguay has gained international recognition for its liberal social policies, including the legalization of same-sex marriage, the decriminalization of abortion, and the legalization of cannabis.

Governance Challenges

Despite its stability, Uruguay faces challenges such as corruption and maintaining its high standards of social welfare and public services amid global economic fluctuations. The country’s reliance on agricultural exports leaves it vulnerable to external market conditions, and economic inequality remains a challenge in both urban and rural areas.

Moreover, while Uruguay has made significant progress in terms of human development, challenges related to education and healthcare disparities persist, particularly in poorer rural areas. However, the government continues to focus on sustainable development, environmental conservation, and social equality, ensuring that Uruguay remains a progressive and stable country in the region.

Culture of Uruguay

Traditional Music and Dance

Uruguayan music is deeply rooted in its cultural history and influenced by a combination of European and African heritage. One of the most popular genres is Candombe, an Afro-Uruguayan style of music that originated with the country’s African slave population. It is characterized by rhythmical drumbeats and is accompanied by traditional dances. Murga is another unique form of music and theater, which incorporates both humorous and dramatic elements, typically performed during Carnival celebrations.

Uruguay is also famous for its tango, which it shares with Argentina. While tango originated in Argentina, it is an important part of Uruguay’s musical heritage, particularly in Montevideo. The country celebrates its tango culture with annual festivals and performances, with tango salons and milongas (social dance events) held across the country.

Art and Craft

Uruguay has a thriving art scene, with many artists focusing on painting, sculpture, and the arts and crafts traditions passed down through generations. The country’s indigenous art heritage is seen in its craftwork, which includes pottery, textiles, and wood carving. Art galleries, museums, and cultural institutions throughout the country promote local artists and preserve Uruguay’s artistic legacy.

The work of famous Uruguayan artists such as Carlos Páez Vilaró and José Gurvich is highly regarded both nationally and internationally. These artists reflect Uruguay’s social, political, and cultural struggles through their works.

Cuisine

Uruguayan cuisine is a blend of Spanish, Italian, and indigenous influences, with an emphasis on meat, particularly beef. Asado, the traditional barbecue, is a key part of the national identity. This social meal consists of various cuts of beef, lamb, and pork, cooked over an open flame. Chivito, a sandwich filled with steak, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and mayonnaise, is another popular dish, symbolizing the country’s love for meat.

Uruguayan cuisine also includes empanadas, milanesas, and tortas fritas (fried dough pastries). The use of yerba mate, a traditional South American herbal drink, is common, and the country has a strong coffee culture, with coffee being an essential part of daily life.

Festivals and Celebrations

Uruguay celebrates numerous festivals throughout the year, many of which reflect its European heritage and Afro-Uruguayan traditions. Carnival, which takes place during the summer months, is the largest and most vibrant festival in the country, featuring parades, colorful costumes, music, and dance.

Fiesta de la Patria Gaucha, a celebration of Uruguay’s gaucho (cowboy) heritage, is also an important cultural event, held annually in Tacuarembó. Independence Day (August 25) and Constitution Day (March 16) are important national holidays, with patriotic events, parades, and festivities celebrating the country’s history and political achievements.