Country Summary
Introduction
Background
Formerly administered as part of the British Crown Colony of Mauritius, the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) was established as an overseas territory of the UK in 1965. A number of the islands of the territory were later transferred to the Seychelles when it attained independence in 1976.
Geography
Area
total: 60 sq km
land: 60 sq km
water: 54,340 sq km
Climate
tropical marine; hot, humid, moderated by trade winds
Natural resources
coconuts, fish, sugarcane
People and Society
Government
Executive branch
chief of state: King CHARLES III (since 8 September 2022)
head of government: Commissioner Paul CANDLER (since 8 July 2021); Administrator Kit PYMAN; note - both reside in the UK and are represented by Commander Steven R. DRYSDALE, RN, commanding British Forces on Diego Garcia (since 19 February 2021)
Economy
Economic overview
small island territory economy; economic activity mainly on Diego Garcia with national military installations; recently settled disputes with Mauritius have increased oil exports; established marine reserve has limited commercial fishing
Page last updated: Monday, September 12, 2022