Coastline Lengths By Country

The Global Firepower Index ranks countries by their coastline lengths, highlighting their maritime boundaries and geographical advantages. Coastlines are essential for trade, defense, and economic activities, significantly influencing a nation's strategic importance.

Which Country Has the Longest Coastline?

Canada boasts the world’s longest coastline, spanning an impressive 202,080 km. This extensive coastline provides Canada with unparalleled access to marine resources and global trade routes:

- Canada: 202,080 km
- Indonesia: 54,716 km
- Russia: 37,653 km

Top 10 Countries by Coastline Length

The following nations lead the rankings for coastline length, underscoring their geographical significance in maritime trade and defense:

1. Canada: 202,080 km
2. Indonesia: 54,716 km
3. Russia: 37,653 km
4. Philippines: 36,289 km
5. Japan: 29,751 km
6. Australia: 25,760 km
7. Norway: 25,148 km
8. United States: 19,924 km
9. New Zealand: 15,134 km
10. China: 14,500 km

Countries with Extensive Coastlines in Europe

European nations like Norway and the United Kingdom rank high in coastline lengths, reflecting their historical reliance on maritime trade and naval power:

- Norway: 25,148 km
- United Kingdom: 12,429 km
- Greece: 13,676 km
- Italy: 7,600 km
- France: 4,853 km

Countries with Moderate Coastline Lengths in Asia

Asian nations like China, India, and Japan maintain substantial coastlines that play critical roles in their economic and military strategies:

- China: 14,500 km
- Japan: 29,751 km
- India: 7,000 km
- Philippines: 36,289 km
- Vietnam: 3,444 km

Smallest Countries by Coastline Length

Some nations, due to their geography, have minimal coastlines. These countries rely heavily on other forms of connectivity for trade and defense:

- Bosnia and Herzegovina: 20 km
- Jordan, Kazakhstan: 26 km
- DR Congo: 37 km
- Slovenia: 47 km
- Iraq: 58 km

How Do Coastline Lengths Impact a Country?

Coastlines influence a country's economic activities, including fishing, shipping, and tourism. They also shape defense strategies, providing access to maritime trade routes and territorial waters. Nations with longer coastlines often have greater maritime influence.

Frequently Asked Questions About Coastline Lengths

Q: Which country has the longest coastline?
A: Canada, with 202,080 km of coastline.

Q: How do long coastlines benefit countries?
A: Long coastlines provide access to abundant marine resources, enhance trade capabilities, and support tourism and defense strategies.

Q: Which continents have countries with the longest coastlines?
A: North America (Canada) and Asia (Indonesia, Russia).

Global Insights on Coastline Lengths

This ranking highlights the importance of coastlines for trade, resource access, and geopolitical influence. Nations with extensive coastlines leverage these natural assets for economic growth and strategic advantage.