Water surplus and deficit are determined by the balance between water availability and the needs of an area's population, agriculture, and economy.

A surplus indicates water security, where supply exceeds demand for drinking water, while a deficit signifies water insecurity, where demand outstrips supply.

Demand is influenced by population size, density, income, and agricultural activity, whereas supply depends on rainfall, groundwater, and alternative sources.

Globally, many countries experience a water surplus, with the largest surpluses found in places like the Republic of Congo and Iceland, while water deficits are prevalent in regions such as Africa and the Middle East, affecting nations like Libya and Qatar.

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