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: 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
Singapore 69%, United States 10%, Canada 5%, Ireland 4%, Saudi Arabia 2% (2021)
Exports - commodities
tuna and other fish, computers, integrated circuits, diamonds, jewelry (2021)
Imports - partners
Singapore 64%, United States 22%, Panama 4%, Ireland 3%, Bulgaria 1% (2021)
Imports - commodities
inedible fish and animal products, aluminum structures, cement, boat propellers, packaged medicines (2021)
Page last updated: Tuesday, December 26, 2023