Trade & Healthcare Drive Life Expectancy in Major World Economies. A new report highlights the correlation between trade, healthcare, and life expectancy across major global economies. Created in partnership with the Hinrich Foundation and based on data from the United Nations Human Development Index (UN HDI), the analysis shows how life expectancy at birth varies across 29 major economies, offering insights into the role of trade in shaping public health and prosperity.

The study, which is part of the 2024 Sustainable Trade Index (STI), reveals that nations with higher life expectancies tend to score better on the STI’s lifespan metric. Life expectancy is closely linked to the availability of essential resources such as healthcare services, nutritious food, and education—factors that are all influenced by trade policies. Countries with open trade policies are better positioned to provide these resources to their populations, contributing to longer lifespans.

Japan stands at the top of the list with a life expectancy of 84.8 years, followed closely by Hong Kong (84.3 years), Singapore (84.1 years), and South Korea (84.0 years). These countries share strong healthcare systems, healthy lifestyles, and high levels of economic development, all of which contribute to longer life expectancy. Australia and New Zealand also feature prominently, with life expectancies of 83.6 and 83.0 years, respectively.

In contrast, economies with lower GDP per capita, such as Myanmar and Papua New Guinea, tend to have shorter life expectancies. This is indicative of the challenges that less economically developed countries face in providing access to vital services like healthcare and education, both of which play a critical role in extending life expectancy.

One surprising outlier in the data is the United States, which ranks 12th despite having the second-highest GDP per capita. While the U.S. benefits from a strong economy, its healthcare system, which lacks universal coverage, significantly impacts its overall life expectancy. The country’s relatively low life expectancy of 79.8 years reflects ongoing disparities in healthcare access and outcomes.

This analysis underscores the importance of sustainable trade policies in shaping the health and longevity of populations. By fostering access to healthcare, education, and resources, countries can improve life expectancy and overall public health. The 2024 STI report not only offers a snapshot of life expectancy in major economies but also highlights the profound impact that trade can have on shaping healthier, more prosperous societies.