Ventspils is characterised by a high level of economic activity and employment of residents. In the beginning of 2005, the level of unemployment was the lowest in last five years (only 7.4%).
Since the 17th century, when the population of Ventspils was 1.5 – 2 thousand, it has grown about 25 times, reaching the present day number. In the 20th century, the population was growing from the beginning of the century to 1914, increasing from 7 to 24 thousand.
As a developed port city and a place for successful business Ventspils has entered international competition side by side with similar cities in the world.