Seychelles

The nation of Seychelles is an African country consisting of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean and has one of the smallest populations in the world. Despite this, Seychelles’ GDP is 1.42 billion USD a year, which is largely made up of the tourism, fishing/boating, and food processing industries. Nearly 30% of the Seychellois work force is employed by the tourism sector, while the public sector takes on a an even greater share of the work force.

Given the distance between Seychelles and its nearest neighbors (no less than 1,400 kilometers), the country’s import and export industries through the Indian Ocean are essential. However, despite the nation’s proximity to other African and Asian countries, the top receivers of the nation’s exports are highly developed European countries, including France, the United Kingdom, and Italy, along with Japan. Further, Seychelles maintains strong trade agreements within the Southern African Development Community, the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa, and the Indian Ocean Commission.

Thus, not only does Seychelles import and export internationally, but further seeks to promote trade and investment in its neighboring states. Given Seychelles’ strong regional and international ties, and its government’s strong encouragement of foreign direct investment – especially in the areas of fishing and tourism – as well as the state’s strong economic advantages, Seychelles is a strong candidate for both regional and international investments. The country provides a very positive investment environment and serves as a critical hub for investment.