Jersey - The World Factbook

Introduction

Background

Jersey and the other Channel Islands represent the last remnants of the medieval Duchy of Normandy that held sway in both France and England. The Bailiwick of Jersey is a British Crown dependency, which means that it is not part of the UK but is rather a self-governing possession of the British Crown. However, the UK Government is constitutionally responsible for its defense and international representation.

Geography

Area

total: 116 sq km
land: 116 sq km
water: 0 sq km

Climate

temperate; mild winters and cool summers

Natural resources

arable land

People and Society

Population

102,785 (2023 est.)

Ethnic groups

Jersey 44.4%, British 30.5%, Portuguese/Madeiran 9.4%, Polish 3%, Irish 2.1%, other 10.6% (2021 est.)

Languages

English (official) 94.5%, Portuguese 4.6%, other 0.9% (includes French (official) and Jerriais)

(2001 est.)

Religions

Protestant (Anglican, Baptist, Congregational New Church, Methodist, Presbyterian), Roman Catholic

Population growth rate

0.61% (2023 est.)

Government

Government type

parliamentary democracy (Assembly of the States of Jersey)

Capital

name: Saint Helier

Executive branch

chief of state: King CHARLES III (since 8 September 2022); represented by Lieutenant Governor Jerry KYD (since 8 October 2022)
head of government: Chief Minister Kristina MOORE (since 12 July 2022); Bailiff Timothy Le COCQ (since 17 October 2019)

Legislative branch

description: unicameral Assembly of the States of Jersey (49 elected members; 8 senators to serve 4-year terms, and 29 deputies and 12 connetables, or heads of parishes, to serve 4-year terms; 5 non-voting members appointed by the monarch include the bailiff, lieutenant governor, dean of Jersey, attorney general, and the solicitor general)

Economy

Economic overview

British territorial island economy; strong offshore banking and finance sectors; low asset taxation; strong tourism sector prior to COVID-19 and Brexit; one of the most expensive places to live; minimal welfare system; historical cider industry

Real GDP (purchasing power parity)

$5.569 billion (2016 est.)
$5.514 billion (2015 est.)
$4.98 billion (2014 est.)

Real GDP per capita

$56,600 (2016 est.)
$49,500 (2015 est.)

Agricultural products

potatoes, cauliflower, tomatoes; beef, dairy products

Industries

tourism, banking and finance, dairy, electronics

Exports - partners

almost entirely United Kingdom (2022)

Exports - commodities

refined petroleum, beverages, ships, jewelry, artwork (2022)

Imports - partners