URUGUAY IN NUMBERS

Five indicators of Uruguay's natural resources, infrastructure and institutional development.

Uruguay is a country of approximately 3.5 million inhabitants, situated between Argentina and Brazil. Despite its relatively small population, it maintains substantial agricultural production, a predominantly renewable electricity system and established national infrastructure.

The following five indicators provide an overview of some of the country's defining characteristics.

98% RENEWABLE ENERGY

In 2025, approximately 98% of Uruguay's electricity was generated from renewable sources, according to the Ministry of Industry, Energy and Mining.

The country's electricity generation consisted of approximately 46% hydroelectric power, 34% wind, 14% biomass and 4% solar energy. Fossil fuels accounted for the remaining 2%.

This composition reflects sustained investment in renewable generation and the diversification of electricity supply over the past two decades.

The figures refer to electricity generation rather than total national energy consumption, which also includes transport fuels and other energy sources.

EXTENSIVE FRESHWATER RESOURCES

Uruguay has a substantial network of rivers, streams, reservoirs and underground aquifers.

The country lies partly above the Guaraní Aquifer System, one of South America's major transboundary groundwater systems, shared with Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay.

Its principal river systems include the Río Uruguay, Río Negro and Río Santa Lucía. Reservoirs support electricity generation, while surface water and groundwater are used for agricultural production, industry and public water supply.

Although Uruguay has considerable freshwater resources relative to its population, their availability and quality vary geographically. Periodic droughts, including the significant water shortage experienced in 2023, demonstrate the importance of water management and infrastructure.

92% INTERNET CONNECTIVITY

Uruguay has developed extensive digital and telecommunications infrastructure.

According to international telecommunications indicators, approximately 92% of the population uses the internet, reflecting widespread digital connectivity.

Fiber-optic networks, mobile telecommunications and digital public services support residential and commercial activity throughout the country.

Connectivity nevertheless varies by location, particularly in rural areas, where the availability and quality of fixed-line services should be assessed individually.

NATIONWIDE CATTLE TRACEABILITY

Uruguay has approximately 11.5 million cattle compared with a human population of around 3.5 million — more than three cattle per resident.

The country operates a nationwide individual cattle identification and traceability system. Since 2011, individual identification has been mandatory for cattle throughout the national herd.

Electronic identification devices and a centralized database allow animal identification and movements to be recorded throughout the production process.

This system supports veterinary oversight, food safety controls and access to international export markets.

REGIONAL LEADERSHIP - RULE OF LAW

Uruguay ranked 23rd among 143 countries in the World Justice Project's 2025 Rule of Law Index, placing it first in Latin America and the Caribbean.

The index evaluates factors including constraints on government powers, absence of corruption, regulatory enforcement, fundamental rights and the functioning of civil and criminal justice systems.

Uruguay's position reflects the country's established democratic institutions, legal framework and relatively strong institutional performance within the region.

UNDERSTANDING URUGUAY BEYOND ITS SIZE

These indicators illustrate several characteristics of Uruguay that extend beyond its coastal destinations and agricultural landscapes.

Its renewable electricity generation, freshwater systems, digital infrastructure, livestock traceability and institutional framework are relevant to understanding the country's economic development and operating environment.

For further information about property ownership and investment, see our guides to Buying Property in Uruguay and Uruguay Real Estate Market Overview.

Figures are based on official statistics and international institutional publications. Reporting periods vary by indicator, and figures may be updated by the respective authorities.