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Seychelles

Africa · Victoria · presidential republic

What Seychelles means for your money — the prices you pay, the tariffs in motion, and where U.S. policy could change both.

Map showing the location of Seychelles

$4M

U.S. imports, 2025

-39.4%

change in one year

$20M

U.S. exports, 2025

98K

Population

$2.2B

GDP

In your house

What you buy that Seychelles makes

America bought $4M in goods from Seychelles in 2025 — down 39.4% in a single year. Of every $100 of it, here's where the money went.

U.s. goods returned, and reimports

$2M40.6%

Fish and shellfish

fish, shrimp, shellfish

$717K16.6%

Electric apparatus

$268K6.2%

Materials handling equipment

$237K5.5%

Industrial engines

$183K4.2%

Numismatic coins

$157K3.7%

Medicinal equipment

medical devices and equipment

$146K3.4%

Stereo equipment, etc

speakers and audio equipment

$144K3.3%

Synthetic cloth

$138K3.2%

Furniture, household goods, etc.

furniture, mattresses, lamps

$101K2.3%

2026 so far (through April): $2M in imports. Source: U.S. Census Bureau, International Trade in Goods (customs basis).

The other direction

What America sells to Seychelles

$20M in 2025 — a trade rupture cuts both ways, for American producers as well as American prices.

Civilian aircraft, engines, equipment, and parts

$6M

Pleasure boats and motors

$2M

Industrial machines, other

$1M

Minimum value shipments

$1M

Marine engines, parts

$883K

Electric apparatus

$873K

Photo, service industry machinery

$733K

Meat, poultry, etc.

$609K

Food, tobacco machinery

$502K

Where you stand

U.S. tariff posture toward Seychelles

No U.S. tariff action singles this country out. Its goods face the universal 10% temporary import surcharge under Section 122 of the Trade Act (which replaced the IEEPA reciprocal baseline in February 2026) plus the sectoral Section 232 duties — steel and aluminum at 50% — that apply to all countries. The Section 122 surcharge is statutorily temporary — scheduled to lapse on or about July 23, 2026 (a 150-day cap) unless extended or replaced.

Reciprocal tariff (universal baseline)

10%

The universal 10% floor — a Section 122 import surcharge since February 2026, previously the EO 14257 reciprocal baseline — applies to nearly all U.S. imports. This country has no higher assigned rate of its own.

Policy in motion

Tariff status: a moving target

No U.S. tariff action names Seychelles. These are the universal measures — applied to every country without a country-specific arrangement — that set its treatment.

  1. 2026-04-06

    Section 232 metals coverage expanded

    In effect

    The April 2026 proclamation strengthening Section 232 actions on aluminum, steel, and copper expanded derivative-product coverage for all countries, keeping the general metals rate at 50%.

    91 FR 18201
  2. 2026-02-24

    IEEPA reciprocal tariffs terminated — replaced by 10% Section 122 surcharge

    In effect

    Executive Order 14389 (Ending Certain Tariff Actions) terminated the IEEPA tariff duties — including the EO 14257 reciprocal baseline — effective February 24, 2026. A flat 10% Section 122 temporary import surcharge (Proclamation 11012 of February 20, 2026) replaced them, leaving the universal rate unchanged at 10% on a different statutory basis. Section 122 caps such surcharges at 150 days, so this 10% surcharge is scheduled to lapse on or about July 23, 2026 absent further action (the administration has signaled it could raise the rate toward the 15% statutory maximum).

    91 FR 9437
  3. 2025-11-13

    Agricultural products exempted from reciprocal tariffs

    In effect

    Executive Order 14360 of November 14, 2025 removed reciprocal duties from certain agricultural products listed in its annexes (coffee, cocoa, bananas, and other goods the U.S. does not produce in sufficient quantity), retroactive to November 13, 2025 — for all countries subject to the reciprocal tariff.

    90 FR 54091
  4. 2025-06-04

    Section 232 steel and aluminum duties doubled to 50%

    In effect

    The June 3, 2025 proclamation raised Section 232 duties on steel and aluminum articles and derivatives from 25% to 50% for all countries, effective June 4, 2025.

    90 FR 24199
  5. 2025-04-05

    Universal 10% reciprocal baseline takes effect

    In effect

    Executive Order 14257 (signed April 2, 2025) imposed a 10% ad valorem reciprocal duty on imports from all trading partners, effective April 5, 2025. Countries without a higher Annex I rate remain at this baseline.

    Federal Register · 2025-06063
  6. 2025-03-12

    Section 232 steel and aluminum duties set at 25% for all countries

    In effect

    Proclamations of February 10, 2025 terminated all country exemptions and quota arrangements and applied 25% Section 232 duties to steel and aluminum imports from every country, effective March 12, 2025.

    90 FR 9817

Reference

The country itself

Africa · Geography, people, economy, and government — public-domain data from the CIA World Factbook.

Seychelles was uninhabited before Europeans discovered the islands early in the 16th century. After a lengthy struggle, France eventually ceded control of the islands to Great Britain in 1814. During colonial rule, a plantation-based economy developed that relied on imported labor, primarily from European colonies in Africa. Seychelles gained independence in 1976 through negotiations with Great Britain. In 1977, Prime Minister France-Albert RENE launched a coup against the country’s first president, and Seychelles became a socialist one-party state until adopting a new constitution and holding elections in 1993. RENE continued to lead Seychelles through two election cycles until he stepped down in 2004. Vice President James Alix MICHEL took over the presidency and in 2006 was elected to a new five-year term; he was reelected in 2011 and again in 2015. In 2016, James MICHEL resigned and handed over the presidency to his vice-president, Danny FAURE. In 2020, Wavel RAMKALAWAN was elected president, the first time an opposition candidate has won the presidency.

Regional map of Seychelles

Geography

Location
archipelago in the Indian Ocean, northeast of Madagascar
Area
455 sq km
Climate
tropical marine; humid; cooler season during southeast monsoon (late May to September); warmer season during northwest monsoon (March to May)
Terrain
Mahe Group is volcanic with a narrow coastal strip and rocky, hilly interior; others are relatively flat coral atolls, or elevated reefs; sits atop the submarine Mascarene Plateau
Natural resources
fish, coconuts (copra), cinnamon trees
Coastline
491 km
Natural hazards
lies outside the cyclone belt, so severe storms are rare; occasional short droughts

People & society

Population
98,187 (2024 est.)
Nationality
Seychellois (singular and plural)
Ethnic groups
predominantly Creole (mainly of East African and Malagasy heritage); also French, Indian, Chinese, and Arab populations
Languages
Seychellois Creole (official) 89.1%, English (official) 5.1%, French (official) 0.7%, other 3.8%, unspecified 1.4% (2010 est.)
Religions
Roman Catholic 76.2%, Protestant 10.5% (Anglican 6.1%, Pentecostal Assembly 1.5%, Seventh Day Adventist 1.2%, other Protestant 1.7%), other Christian 2.4%, Hindu 2.4%, Muslim 1.6%, other non-Christian 1.1%, unspecified 4.8%, none 0.9% (2010 est.)
Median age
39.2 years (2025 est.)
Life expectancy at birth
76.6 years (2024 est.)

Economy

Economic overview
high-income Indian Ocean island economy; rapidly growing tourism sector; major tuna exporter; offshore financial hub; environmentally fragile and investing in ocean rise mitigation; recently discovered offshore oil potential; successful anticorruption efforts
Industries
fishing, tourism, beverages
Agricultural products
coconuts, vegetables, bananas, eggs, chicken, pork, fruits, tomatoes, tropical fruits, cassava (2023)
Exports - partners
France 20%, Mauritius 12%, UK 9%, Japan 8%, Italy 8% (2023)
Imports - partners
UAE 32%, Spain 10%, France 6%, South Africa 6%, India 6% (2023)

Government

Government type
presidential republic
Capital
Victoria
Independence
29 June 1976 (from the UK)
Constitution
previous 1970, 1979; latest drafted May 1993, approved by referendum 18 June 1993, effective 23 June 1993
Executive branch
President Patrick HERMINIE (since 26 October 2025)
Legislative branch
National Assembly

Full reference data

Every field, by section — CIA World Factbook. Open a topic to expand it.

Introduction
Background
Seychelles was uninhabited before Europeans discovered the islands early in the 16th century. After a lengthy struggle, France eventually ceded control of the islands to Great Britain in 1814. During colonial rule, a plantation-based economy developed that relied on imported labor, primarily from European colonies in Africa. Seychelles gained independence in 1976 through negotiations with Great Britain. In 1977, Prime Minister France-Albert RENE launched a coup against the country’s first president, and Seychelles became a socialist one-party state until adopting a new constitution and holding elections in 1993. RENE continued to lead Seychelles through two election cycles until he stepped down in 2004. Vice President James Alix MICHEL took over the presidency and in 2006 was elected to a new five-year term; he was reelected in 2011 and again in 2015. In 2016, James MICHEL resigned and handed over the presidency to his vice-president, Danny FAURE. In 2020, Wavel RAMKALAWAN was elected president, the first time an opposition candidate has won the presidency.
Travel Facts
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise normal precautions in Seychelles. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws, and special circumstances in this country. https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
US citizens should make sure their passport is valid at the date of their entering the country and during the length of their entire visit. They should also make sure they have at least 1 blank page in their passport for any entry stamp that will be required. A visa is not required; visitor permits granted upon arrival with return ticket.
US Embassy/Consulate
US does not have an embassy in Seychelles; the US Ambassador to Mauritius is accredited to Seychelles; +(230) 202-4400; EMER: +(230) 5253 3641; US Embassy Port Louis, 4th Floor, Rogers House, John Kennedy Street, Port Louis, Mauritius; PTLConsular@state.gov; https://mu.usembassy.gov/
Telephone Code
248
Local Emergency Phone
999
Vaccinations
An International Certificate of Vaccination for yellow fever is required for travelers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission and for travelers having transited through the airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. See WHO recommendations. http://www.who.int/
Climate
Tropical marine; humid; cooler season during southeast monsoon (late May to September); warmer season during northwest monsoon (March to May)
Currency (Code)
Seychelles rupees (SCR)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
240 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): G
Major Languages
Seychellois Creole, English, French
Major Religions
Roman Catholic 76.2%, Protestant 10.5% (Anglican, Pentecostal Assembly, Seventh Day Adventist, other Protestant), other Christian 2.4%, Hindu 2.4%, Muslim 1.6%
Time Difference
UTC+4 (9 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Potable Water
Opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit
Suggested
Road Driving Side
Left
Tourist Destinations
Aldabra Atoll; Morne Blanc; Moyenne Island; Victoria (includes Seychelles National Botanical Gardens, Victoria Market)
Major Sports
Basketball, water sports
Cultural Practices
When greeting someone for the first time, and when saying goodbye, shake hands with both men and women. Wearing swimwear is fine for the beaches; otherwise, modest clothing is advised.
Tipping Guidelines
Most hotels, restaurants, taxis, and porters already include a 5-10% service charge so tipping is not obligatory. However, as a reward for exceptional service, a nominal tip is sure to be appreciated.
Souvenirs
Coco De Mer food and decorative items; batik fabric, sarongs, and scarves; shell and pearl jewelry; turtle shell-, coral-, and coconut-carved items; natural bath products, straw baskets, tea
Traditional Cuisine
Pwason griye — whole fresh fish, often red snapper or rabbit fish, flavored with crushed chili, garlic, and ginger and grilled; typically served over rice, with sweet potatoes or tamarind-tomato chutney on the side
CIA source last updated
Wednesday, July 20, 2022
Travel resources

Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.

World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.

US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.

To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs: American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)

How to get help in an emergency? Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers: from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444

Page last updated: Wednesday, July 20, 2022

Geography
Location
archipelago in the Indian Ocean, northeast of Madagascar
Geographic coordinates
4 35 S, 55 40 E
Map references
Africa
Area - total
455 sq km
Area - land
455 sq km
Area - water
0 sq km
Area - comparative
2.5 times the size of Washington, D.C.
Land boundaries - total
0 km
Coastline
491 km
Maritime claims - territorial sea
12 nm
Maritime claims - contiguous zone
24 nm
Maritime claims - exclusive economic zone
200 nm
Maritime claims - continental shelf
200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
Climate
tropical marine; humid; cooler season during southeast monsoon (late May to September); warmer season during northwest monsoon (March to May)
Terrain
Mahe Group is volcanic with a narrow coastal strip and rocky, hilly interior; others are relatively flat coral atolls, or elevated reefs; sits atop the submarine Mascarene Plateau
Elevation - highest point
Morne Seychellois 905 m
Elevation - lowest point
Indian Ocean 0 m
Natural resources
fish, coconuts (copra), cinnamon trees
Land use - agricultural land
3.4% (2023 est.)
Land use - agricultural land: arable land
arable land: 0.3% (2023 est.)
Land use - agricultural land: permanent crops
permanent crops: 3% (2023 est.)
Land use - agricultural land: permanent pasture
permanent pasture: 0% (2022 est.)
Land use - forest
58.6% (2023 est.)
Land use - other
38% (2023 est.)
Irrigated land
3 sq km (2012)
Population distribution
more than three quarters of the population lives on the main island of Mahe; Praslin is home to less than 10%, and a smaller percentage is on La Digue and the outer islands, as shown in this population distribution map
Natural hazards
lies outside the cyclone belt, so severe storms are rare; occasional short droughts
Geography - note
the smallest African country in terms of both area and population; the constitution of the Republic of Seychelles lists 155 islands, including 42 granitic and 113 coralline; the largest island by far is Mahe, which is home to about 90% of the population and is the site of the capital city of Victoria
People and Society
Population - total
98,187 (2024 est.)
Population - male
50,973
Population - female
47,214
Nationality - noun
Seychellois (singular and plural)
Nationality - adjective
Seychellois
Ethnic groups
predominantly Creole (mainly of East African and Malagasy heritage); also French, Indian, Chinese, and Arab populations
Languages
Seychellois Creole (official) 89.1%, English (official) 5.1%, French (official) 0.7%, other 3.8%, unspecified 1.4% (2010 est.)
Religions
Roman Catholic 76.2%, Protestant 10.5% (Anglican 6.1%, Pentecostal Assembly 1.5%, Seventh Day Adventist 1.2%, other Protestant 1.7%), other Christian 2.4%, Hindu 2.4%, Muslim 1.6%, other non-Christian 1.1%, unspecified 4.8%, none 0.9% (2010 est.)
Age structure - 0-14 years
17.7% (male 8,912/female 8,439)
Age structure - 15-64 years
72.4% (male 37,841/female 33,210)
Age structure - 65 years and over
10% (2024 est.) (male 4,220/female 5,565)
Dependency ratios - total dependency ratio
38.2 (2024 est.)
Dependency ratios - youth dependency ratio
24.4 (2024 est.)
Dependency ratios - elderly dependency ratio
13.8 (2024 est.)
Dependency ratios - potential support ratio
7.3 (2024 est.)
Median age - total
39.2 years (2025 est.)
Median age - male
38.2 years
Median age - female
39.4 years
Population growth rate
0.53% (2025 est.)
Birth rate
11.59 births/1,000 population (2025 est.)
Death rate
7.02 deaths/1,000 population (2025 est.)
Net migration rate
0.71 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2025 est.)
Population distribution
more than three quarters of the population lives on the main island of Mahe; Praslin is home to less than 10%, and a smaller percentage is on La Digue and the outer islands, as shown in this population distribution map
Urbanization - urban population
58.8% of total population (2023)
Urbanization - rate of urbanization
0.99% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population
28,000 VICTORIA (capital) (2018)
Sex ratio - at birth
1.03 male(s)/female
Sex ratio - 0-14 years
1.06 male(s)/female
Sex ratio - 15-64 years
1.14 male(s)/female
Sex ratio - 65 years and over
0.76 male(s)/female
Sex ratio - total population
1.08 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
Maternal mortality ratio
42 deaths/100,000 live births (2023 est.)
Infant mortality rate - total
10 deaths/1,000 live births (2025 est.)
Infant mortality rate - male
12.8 deaths/1,000 live births
Infant mortality rate - female
7.4 deaths/1,000 live births
Life expectancy at birth - total population
76.6 years (2024 est.)
Life expectancy at birth - male
72.2 years
Life expectancy at birth - female
81.1 years
Total fertility rate
1.8 children born/woman (2025 est.)
Gross reproduction rate
0.89 (2025 est.)
Drinking water source - improved: total
total: 96.4% of population (2022 est.)
Drinking water source - unimproved: total
total: 3.6% of population (2022 est.)
Health expenditure - Health expenditure (as % of GDP)
5.3% of GDP (2021)
Health expenditure - Health expenditure (as % of national budget)
10.2% of national budget (2022 est.)
Physician density
2.25 physicians/1,000 population (2019)
Hospital bed density
3.2 beds/1,000 population (2020 est.)
Sanitation facility access - improved: total
total: 100% of population (2022 est.)
Sanitation facility access - unimproved: total
total: 0% of population (2022 est.)
Obesity - adult prevalence rate
14% (2016)
Alcohol consumption per capita - total
9.48 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Alcohol consumption per capita - beer
4.11 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Alcohol consumption per capita - wine
0.49 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Alcohol consumption per capita - spirits
4.62 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Alcohol consumption per capita - other alcohols
0.25 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Tobacco use - total
20.5% (2025 est.)
Tobacco use - male
34.2% (2025 est.)
Tobacco use - female
5.2% (2025 est.)
Currently married women (ages 15-49)
44.6% (2022 est.)
Education expenditure - Education expenditure (% GDP)
4.5% of GDP (2023 est.)
Education expenditure - Education expenditure (% national budget)
10.7% national budget (2025 est.)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education) - total
13 years (2023 est.)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education) - male
13 years (2023 est.)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education) - female
15 years (2023 est.)
Government
Country name - conventional long form
Republic of Seychelles
Country name - conventional short form
Seychelles
Country name - local long form
Republic of Seychelles
Country name - local short form
Seychelles
Country name - etymology
named by French Captain Corneille Nicholas MORPHEY after Jean Moreau de SéCHELLES, the finance minister of France, in 1756; the British changed the spelling of the name in 1815 when they acquired the islands
Government type
presidential republic
Capital - name
Victoria
Capital - geographic coordinates
4 37 S, 55 27 E
Capital - time difference
UTC+4 (9 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Capital - etymology
the British named the town Port Victoria in 1841 after Queen VICTORIA; the name was later shortened
Administrative divisions
27 administrative districts; Anse aux Pins, Anse Boileau, Anse Etoile, Anse Royale, Au Cap, Baie Lazare, Baie Sainte Anne, Beau Vallon, Bel Air, Bel Ombre, Cascade, Glacis, Grand Anse Mahe, Grand Anse Praslin, Ile Persévérance I, Ile Persévérance II, La Digue, La Rivière Anglaise, Les Mamelles, Mont Buxton, Mont Fleuri, Plaisance, Pointe Larue, Port Glaud, Roche Caiman, Saint Louis, Takamaka
Legal system
mixed system of English common law, French civil law, and customary law
Constitution - history
previous 1970, 1979; latest drafted May 1993, approved by referendum 18 June 1993, effective 23 June 1993
Constitution - amendment process
proposed by the National Assembly; passage requires at least two-thirds majority vote by the National Assembly; passage of amendments affecting the country’s sovereignty, symbols and languages, the supremacy of the constitution, fundamental rights and freedoms, amendment procedures, and dissolution of the Assembly also requires approval by at least 60% of voters in a referendum
International law organization participation
has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Citizenship - citizenship by birth
no
Citizenship - citizenship by descent only
at least one parent must be a citizen of the Seychelles
Citizenship - dual citizenship recognized
no
Citizenship - residency requirement for naturalization
5 years
Suffrage
18 years of age; universal
Executive branch - chief of state
President Patrick HERMINIE (since 26 October 2025)
Executive branch - head of government
President Patrick HERMINIE (since 26 October 2025)
Executive branch - cabinet
Council of Ministers appointed by the president
Executive branch - election/appointment process
president directly elected by absolute-majority popular vote in 2 rounds, if needed, for a 5-year term (eligible for a second term)
Executive branch - most recent election date
9 October 2025
Executive branch - election results
2025 : Patrick HERMINIE elected president; Patrick HERMINIE (US) 52.7%, Wavel RAMKALAWAN (LDS) 47.3%
Executive branch - expected date of next election
2030
Executive branch - note
note: the president is both chief of state and head of government
Legislative branch - legislature name
National Assembly
Legislative branch - legislative structure
unicameral
Legislative branch - number of seats
34 (all directly elected)
Legislative branch - electoral system
mixed system
Legislative branch - scope of elections
full renewal
Legislative branch - term in office
5 years
Legislative branch - most recent election date
9/27/2025
Legislative branch - parties elected and seats per party
United Seychelles (US) (19); Seychelles Democratic Alliance (Linyon Demokratik Seselwa, LDS) (15)
Legislative branch - percentage of women in chamber
26.5%
Legislative branch - expected date of next election
September 2030
Judicial branch - highest court(s)
Seychelles Court of Appeal (consists of the court president and 4 justices); Supreme Court of Seychelles (consists of the chief justice and 9 puisne judges); Constitutional Court (consists of 3 Supreme Court judges)
Judicial branch - judge selection and term of office
all judges appointed by the president of the republic upon the recommendation of the Constitutional Appointments Authority, a 3-member body, with 1 member appointed by the president of the republic, 1 by the opposition leader in the National Assembly, and 1 by the other 2 appointees; judges serve until retirement at age 70
Judicial branch - subordinate courts
Magistrates' Courts of Seychelles; Family Tribunal for issues such as domestic violence, child custody, and maintenance; Employment Tribunal for labor-related disputes
Political parties
Seychelles Party for Social Justice and Democracy or SPSJD Seychellois Democratic Alliance or LDS (Linyon Demokratik Seselwa/Union Démocratique Seychelloise) Seychelles National Party or SNP United Seychelles or US
Diplomatic representation in the US - chief of mission
Ambassador Vivianne FOCK TAVE (since 16 December 2025); note - also Permanent Representative to the UN
Diplomatic representation in the US - chancery
685 Third Avenue, Suite 1107, 11th Floor, New York, NY 10017
Diplomatic representation in the US - telephone
[1] (212) 972-1785
Diplomatic representation in the US - FAX
[1] (212) 972-1786
Diplomatic representation in the US - email address and website
seychellesmission@sycun.org Foreign Affairs Department Republic of Seychelles » United States of America (mfa.gov.sc)
Diplomatic representation from the US - chief of mission
Ambassador Henry V. JARDINE (since 22 February 2023) and Chargé d’Affaires Adham LOUTFI (since 6 October 2023); note - Ambassador JARDINE is posted in Mauritius and is accredited to Seychelles, and Chargé d’Affaires LOUTFI is posted in Victoria, Mahe, Seychelles
Diplomatic representation from the US - embassy
2nd Floor, Oliaji Trade Center, Victoria Mahe, Seychelles; note - US Embassy in Seychelles reopened on 1 June 2023 after having been closed in 1996
Diplomatic representation from the US - telephone
[248] 422 5256
Diplomatic representation from the US - email address and website
International organization participation
ACP, AfDB, AOSIS, AU, C, CD, COMESA, EITI (candidate country), FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (NGOs), ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, InOC, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO (correspondent), ITU, MIGA, NAM, OIF, OPCW, SADC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Independence
29 June 1976 (from the UK)
National holiday
Constitution Day, 18 June (1993); Independence Day (National Day), 29 June (1976)
Flag
description: five expanding bands of blue, yellow, red, white, and green, radiating from the bottom left corner meaning: the bands symbolize a dynamic new country moving into the future; blue stands for the sky and sea, yellow for the sun giving light and life, red for the people's determination to work for the future in unity and love, white for social justice and harmony, and green for the land and natural environment
National symbol(s)
coco de mer (sea coconut)
National color(s)
blue, yellow, red, white, green
National anthem(s) - title
"Koste Seselwa" (Seychellois Unite)
National anthem(s) - lyrics/music
David Francois Marc ANDRE and George Charles Robert PAYET
National anthem(s) - history
adopted 1996
National heritage - total World Heritage Sites
2 (both natural)
National heritage - selected World Heritage Site locales
Aldabra Atoll; Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve
Economy
Economic overview
high-income Indian Ocean island economy; rapidly growing tourism sector; major tuna exporter; offshore financial hub; environmentally fragile and investing in ocean rise mitigation; recently discovered offshore oil potential; successful anticorruption efforts
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) - Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2024
$3.549 billion (2024 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) - Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2023
$3.43 billion (2023 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) - Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2022
$3.354 billion (2022 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) - note
note: data in 2021 dollars
Real GDP growth rate - Real GDP growth rate 2024
3.5% (2024 est.)
Real GDP growth rate - Real GDP growth rate 2023
2.3% (2023 est.)
Real GDP growth rate - Real GDP growth rate 2022
12.7% (2022 est.)
Real GDP growth rate - note
note: annual GDP % growth based on constant local currency
Real GDP per capita - Real GDP per capita 2024
$29,200 (2024 est.)
Real GDP per capita - Real GDP per capita 2023
$28,600 (2023 est.)
Real GDP per capita - Real GDP per capita 2022
$28,000 (2022 est.)
Real GDP per capita - note
note: data in 2021 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate)
$2.167 billion (2024 est.)
GDP (official exchange rate) - note
note: data in current dollars at official exchange rate
Inflation rate (consumer prices) - Inflation rate (consumer prices) 2024
0.3% (2024 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices) - Inflation rate (consumer prices) 2023
-1% (2023 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices) - Inflation rate (consumer prices) 2022
2.6% (2022 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices) - note
note: annual % change based on consumer prices
GDP - composition, by sector of origin - agriculture
2.5% (2024 est.)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin - industry
12.3% (2024 est.)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin - services
65.8% (2024 est.)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin - note
note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
GDP - composition, by end use - household consumption
74.6% (2024 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use - government consumption
26.3% (2024 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use - investment in fixed capital
17.2% (2024 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use - investment in inventories
0% (2024 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use - exports of goods and services
85.2% (2024 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use - imports of goods and services
-103.2% (2024 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use - note
note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Agricultural products
coconuts, vegetables, bananas, eggs, chicken, pork, fruits, tomatoes, tropical fruits, cassava (2023)
Agricultural products - note
note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
Industries
fishing, tourism, beverages
Industrial production growth rate
-6.4% (2024 est.)
Industrial production growth rate - note
note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
Population below poverty line
25.3% (2018 est.)
Population below poverty line - note
note: % of population with income below national poverty line
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income - Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income 2018
32.1 (2018 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income - note
note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequality
Household income or consumption by percentage share - lowest 10%
2.6% (2018 est.)
Household income or consumption by percentage share - highest 10%
23.9% (2018 est.)
Household income or consumption by percentage share - note
note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population
Remittances - Remittances 2023
0.5% of GDP (2023 est.)
Remittances - Remittances 2022
0.5% of GDP (2022 est.)
Remittances - Remittances 2021
0.6% of GDP (2021 est.)
Remittances - note
note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
Budget - revenues
$695.973 million (2023 est.)
Budget - expenditures
$728.171 million (2023 est.)
Budget - note
note: central government revenues and expenditures (excluding grants and social security funds) converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Public debt - Public debt 2017
63.6% of GDP (2017 est.)
Public debt - note
note: central government debt as a % of GDP
Taxes and other revenues
26.18% (of GDP) (2020 est.)
Taxes and other revenues - note
note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDP
Current account balance - Current account balance 2023
-$155.194 million (2023 est.)
Current account balance - Current account balance 2022
-$141.648 million (2022 est.)
Current account balance - Current account balance 2021
-$160.168 million (2021 est.)
Current account balance - note
note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Exports - Exports 2023
$2.375 billion (2023 est.)
Exports - Exports 2022
$2.247 billion (2022 est.)
Exports - Exports 2021
$1.751 billion (2021 est.)
Exports - note
note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Exports - partners
France 20%, Mauritius 12%, UK 9%, Japan 8%, Italy 8% (2023)
Exports - partners - note
note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Exports - commodities
fish, scrap iron, animal meal, broadcasting equipment, ships (2023)
Exports - commodities - note
note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Imports - Imports 2023
$2.437 billion (2023 est.)
Imports - Imports 2022
$2.298 billion (2022 est.)
Imports - Imports 2021
$1.821 billion (2021 est.)
Imports - note
note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Imports - partners
UAE 32%, Spain 10%, France 6%, South Africa 6%, India 6% (2023)
Imports - partners - note
note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Imports - commodities
refined petroleum, fish, ships, cars, plastic products (2023)
Imports - commodities - note
note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold - Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2024
$773.678 million (2024 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold - Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2023
$682.794 million (2023 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold - Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2022
$638.961 million (2022 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold - note
note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
Exchange rates - Currency
Seychelles rupees (SCR) per US dollar -
Exchange rates - Exchange rates 2024
14.53 (2024 est.)
Exchange rates - Exchange rates 2023
14.018 (2023 est.)
Exchange rates - Exchange rates 2022
14.273 (2022 est.)
Exchange rates - Exchange rates 2021
16.921 (2021 est.)
Exchange rates - Exchange rates 2020
17.617 (2020 est.)
Energy
Electricity access - electrification - total population
100% (2022 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity
156,000 kW (2023 est.)
Electricity - consumption
581.227 million kWh (2023 est.)
Electricity - transmission/distribution losses
44.034 million kWh (2023 est.)
Electricity generation sources - fossil fuels
86.4% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Electricity generation sources - solar
12.7% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Electricity generation sources - wind
1% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Coal - imports
500 metric tons (2023 est.)
Petroleum - refined petroleum consumption
6,000 bbl/day (2023 est.)
Energy consumption per capita - Total energy consumption per capita 2023
98.847 million Btu/person (2023 est.)
Communications
Telephones - fixed lines - total subscriptions
18,000 (2023 est.)
Telephones - fixed lines - subscriptions per 100 inhabitants
14 (2023 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular - total subscriptions
165,000 (2023 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular - subscriptions per 100 inhabitants
192 (2022 est.)
Broadcast media
state-run national broadcaster Seychelles Broadcasting Corporation (SBC) has the only terrestrial TV station, which also airs broadcasts from international services; privately owned Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) channel; multi-channel cable and satellite TV available through 2 providers; SBC operates 1 AM and 1 FM radio station; 2 privately operated radio stations; transmissions of 2 international broadcasters available in Victoria (2019)
Internet country code
.sc
Internet users - percent of population
87% (2023 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions - total
39,000 (2023 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions - subscriptions per 100 inhabitants
31 (2023 est.)
Transportation
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix
S7
Airports
16 (2025)
Heliports
6 (2025)
Merchant marine - total
30 (2023)
Merchant marine - by type
general cargo 6, oil tanker 6, other 18
Ports - total ports
1 (2024)
Ports - large
0
Ports - medium
0
Ports - small
0
Ports - very small
1
Ports - ports with oil terminals
1
Ports - key ports
Victoria
Military and Security
Military and security forces
Seychelles People's Defense Forces (SPDF; aka Seychelles Defense Forces, SDF): Army (includes infantry, special forces, and a presidential security unit), Coast Guard, and Air Force Ministry of Internal Affairs: Seychelles Police Force (2025)
Military expenditures - Military Expenditures 2024
1.5% of GDP (2024 est.)
Military expenditures - Military Expenditures 2023
1.6% of GDP (2023 est.)
Military expenditures - Military Expenditures 2022
1.4% of GDP (2022 est.)
Military expenditures - Military Expenditures 2021
1.5% of GDP (2021 est.)
Military expenditures - Military Expenditures 2020
1.6% of GDP (2020 est.)
Military and security service personnel strengths
approximately 500 active Defense Forces (2025)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions
the SDF is lightly armed; its inventory consists of obsolescent armaments delivered in the 1970s and 1980s and some more recently donated equipment from Bahrain, China, India, and UAE (2025)
Military service age and obligation
18-35 years of age for voluntary military service for men and women; no conscription (2026)
Military - note
formed in 1977, the SDF is one of the World's smallest militaries; its primary responsibility is maritime security, including countering illegal fishing, piracy, and drug smuggling; it was given police powers in 2022; the Seychelles maintains close security ties with India, which has provided support to the SDF's maritime security operations (2025)
Environment
Environmental issues
limited freshwater resources; water pollution; biodiversity
International environmental agreements - party to
Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping-London Convention, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands
International environmental agreements - signed, but not ratified
none of the selected agreements
Climate
tropical marine; humid; cooler season during southeast monsoon (late May to September); warmer season during northwest monsoon (March to May)
Land use - agricultural land
3.4% (2023 est.)
Land use - agricultural land: arable land
arable land: 0.3% (2023 est.)
Land use - agricultural land: permanent crops
permanent crops: 3% (2023 est.)
Land use - agricultural land: permanent pasture
permanent pasture: 0% (2022 est.)
Land use - forest
58.6% (2023 est.)
Land use - other
38% (2023 est.)
Urbanization - urban population
58.8% of total population (2023)
Urbanization - rate of urbanization
0.99% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Carbon dioxide emissions - total emissions
893,000 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
Carbon dioxide emissions - from coal and metallurgical coke
92 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
Carbon dioxide emissions - from petroleum and other liquids
893,000 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
Particulate matter emissions
17.4 micrograms per cubic meter (2019 est.)
Waste and recycling - municipal solid waste generated annually
48,000 tons (2024 est.)
Waste and recycling - percent of municipal solid waste recycled
24.4% (2022 est.)
Total water withdrawal - municipal
9 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
Total water withdrawal - industrial
3.8 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
Total water withdrawal - agricultural
900,000 cubic meters (2022 est.)