Since its independence in 1976, Seychelles’ per capita output has expanded to roughly seven times the rate prior to its pre-independence, near-subsistence level. This has moved the island into the upper-middle-income group of countries. Growth has been led by the tourist sector, which employs about 30% of the labour force and provides more than 70% of hard currency earnings, as well as by tuna fishing. In recent years, the government has encouraged foreign investment to upgrade hotels and other services.

Name Republic of Seychelles

Capital Victoria

Frequency of elections Every five years

Name of parliament National Assembly of Seychelles

Parliament website www.nationalassembly.sc

Languages Seychellois Creole, French, English

Area 455 km²

Population 91 650 (July 2014 est)

Imports Machinery and equipment, foodstuffs, petroleum products, chemicals, other manufactured goods

Exports Canned tuna, frozen fish, cinnamon bark, copra, petroleum products (re-exports)

Currency Seychelles rupee

Source: CIA World Factbook
Image: Alamy