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
Capital
name: administered from London; often regarded as being on Diego Garcia
Executive branch
chief of state: King CHARLES III (since 8 September 2022)
head of government: Commissioner Paul CANDLER (since 8 July 2021); Administrator Balraj DHANDA; note - both reside in the UK and are represented by Commander Colvin OSBORN, RN, Officer commanding British Forces on Diego Garcia (since January 2022)
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
Exports - partners
Malta 42%, Brazil 11%, Switzerland 9%, France 8%, Egypt 6% (2022)
Exports - commodities
ships, refined petroleum, asphalt, diamonds, jewelry (2022)
Imports - partners
US 34%, Switzerland 13%, China 11%, Italy 11%, France 7% (2022)
Imports - commodities
ships, refined petroleum, diamonds, aircraft, aluminum (2022)
Page last updated: Wednesday, May 15, 2024