| National Factbook |
| Flag: |
|
| Nation Name: |
Republic of Mauritius |
| Leader Name: |
LLY0005 |
| Currency: |
Mauritian Rupee |
| National Animal: |
Lion |
| History: |
Mauritius’s history is a tapestry woven from discovery, colonization, and transformation. Although the island was likely known to Arab and Malay sailors as early as the Middle Ages, it wasn’t until the 16th century that European explorers arrived. The Portuguese were the first recorded visitors, but they left little lasting impact.
In 1598, the Dutch claimed Mauritius, naming it after Prince Maurice of Nassau. During their brief occupation, the Dutch introduced new flora and fauna—including the infamous dodo bird, which became extinct due to overhunting and habitat loss. Despite several attempts to establish a sustainable settlement, the harsh conditions and isolation led the Dutch to abandon the island by 1710.
The French took control in 1715, renaming it Isle de France. Under French rule, Mauritius flourished as a sugar-producing colony. The French developed extensive plantations, relying heavily on enslaved Africans to work the fields. This period laid the foundations for the island’s multicultural society, as diverse groups began to intermingle.
The tide turned in 1810 during the Napoleonic Wars when the British seized the island. Retaining much of the French administrative framework, the British renamed it Mauritius. A major turning point came with the abolition of slavery in 1835. To maintain the labor-intensive sugar industry, the British introduced indentured laborers from India, which profoundly influenced the island’s demographic and cultural landscape.
Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Mauritius evolved economically and socially under British rule, gradually moving towards a more diversified economy. The struggles and gradual reforms culminated in independence on March 12, 1968. Since independence, Mauritius has developed into a stable, multiethnic democracy with a dynamic economy based on tourism, textiles, and financial services.
Today, the legacy of its colonial past is evident in Mauritius’s rich cultural mosaic, vibrant traditions, and resilient spirit—a small island that has continuously reinvented itself to overcome challenges and seize new opportunities. |
| Geography |
| Continent: |
Australia |
| Land Area: |
49,181.43 sq. km |
| Terrain: |
Mauritius is a small volcanic island in the Indian Ocean, renowned for its strikingly diverse terrain. The island’s landscape is a product of ancient volcanic activity, which has given rise to a dramatic topography marked by rugged mountains, lush plateaus, and fertile valleys.
In the heart of Mauritius lies a central plateau, where rolling hills and deep ravines are interspersed with remnants of volcanic craters. This elevated region features notable peaks—such as Le Pouce and Pieter Both—that provide panoramic views of the island and serve as popular destinations for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The volcanic soil here is rich and fertile, underpinning extensive agricultural activities, including the cultivation of sugarcane, which has long been a cornerstone of the local economy.
Moving towards the coast, the terrain transforms dramatically. Mauritius is fringed by long stretches of white sandy beaches and shallow coral reefs that create a natural barrier against the open sea. The island’s coastal areas are a blend of tranquil lagoons and rugged rock formations. The northeastern and eastern shores are particularly known for their serene lagoons and protected bays, making them ideal for water sports and marine exploration. In contrast, parts of the western and southern coasts display steep cliffs and dramatic outcrops, contributing to a more wild and untamed maritime landscape.
Inland, pockets of tropical and subtropical forests flourish, harboring a wide array of endemic flora and fauna. These green, densely wooded areas add to the island’s ecological diversity and provide a stark contrast to the open, sunlit beaches. The varied microclimates across Mauritius—from the humid coastal fringes to the cooler highlands—further enrich its natural tapestry.
Overall, the terrain of Mauritius is a captivating blend of volcanic remnants, rugged highlands, cultivated plateaus, and idyllic coastal scenes. This diversity not only makes the island a visual and ecological treasure but also influences its cultural and economic life, intertwining nature and human activity in a harmonious setting. |
| Highest Peak: |
, 0 meters |
| Lowest Valley: |
, 0 meters |
| Climate: |
Mauritius has a tropical maritime climate characterized by warm, humid summers and mild, dry winters. The island's climate is heavily moderated by the surrounding Indian Ocean, which helps to keep temperatures relatively stable year-round, though regional variations exist due to its diverse topography.
**Summer (November to April):**
During the summer months, temperatures typically range from 25°C to 33°C. This season is also the island's rainy period, marked by frequent, sometimes heavy, afternoon showers driven by convective thunderstorms. Humidity levels are high, which can intensify the warm feel. Tropical cyclones may occur during this time, bringing intense rainfall and gusty winds, though they rarely cause severe damage on the island.
**Winter (June to September):**
Winter is cooler and drier, with average temperatures ranging from 17°C to 25°C. The southeast trade winds provide a pleasant cooling effect, especially along the coast. The central highlands, however, can experience cooler conditions due to higher elevations, creating a variety of microclimates across the island. Winter’s clear skies and mild weather make it an ideal season for outdoor activities and tourism.
**Transitional Seasons – Spring and Autumn:**
The periods between the extremes of summer and winter are characterized by moderate temperatures and relatively stable weather. These transitional months offer pleasant conditions with fewer rain showers than the peak summer period, making them popular times for visitors seeking to enjoy the island’s natural beauty without the intense humidity or risk of cyclones.
**Microclimates and Regional Variations:**
Mauritius’s diverse landscape—from volcanic mountains and plateaus to coastal plains—leads to localized variations in climate. Higher altitudes tend to be cooler and can occasionally experience mist or light rain even during drier periods, while the coastal regions maintain a more consistent warmth and are subject to the direct influence of ocean breezes.
Overall, the climate of Mauritius is a harmonious blend of tropical warmth, seasonal rainfall, and moderating sea influences. This dynamic climate supports lush vegetation, a rich biodiversity, and a robust tourism industry, all of which contribute to the island’s charm and natural appeal. |
| People & Society |
| Population: |
3,634,397 people |
| Demonym: |
|
| Demonym Plural: |
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| Ethnic Groups: |
- 0.0% |
| Languages: |
- 0.0% |
| Religions: |
- 0.0% |
| Health |
| Life Expectancy: |
0 years |
| Obesity: |
0% |
| Alcohol Users: |
0% |
| Tobacco Users: |
0% |
| Cannabis Users: |
0% |
| Hard Drug Users: |
0% |
| Economy |
| Description: |
Mauritius’s economy has evolved from its colonial reliance on sugarcane to a dynamic, diversified system that blends traditional industries with modern services and innovation. Today, the nation is recognized for its steady growth, sound fiscal management, and business-friendly environment.
Historically, sugarcane was the backbone of Mauritius’s economy. While the sugar industry still plays an important role, its relative share has declined as the country diversified its economic base. Tourism now stands out as one of the most vibrant sectors. Visitors are drawn by the island’s pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and diverse natural landscapes, making tourism a significant source of foreign exchange and employment.
The textile and apparel industry is another cornerstone. Building on a legacy of colonial-era plantations, Mauritius has modernized its manufacturing capabilities. The sector remains competitive, with exports reaching major markets in Europe and beyond, while continuously adapting to global trends and shifting consumer demands.
Financial services have emerged as a key pillar of the economy. With a well-regulated banking system and an array of offshore services, Mauritius has positioned itself as a financial hub in the Indian Ocean region. The establishment of investment funds, insurance companies, and global business services has attracted significant foreign investment, bolstered by an extensive network of double taxation avoidance agreements.
In recent years, the government has placed a strong emphasis on developing a knowledge-based economy. Investments in digital infrastructure, technology parks, and innovation hubs have fostered growth in information and communication technologies. These efforts are aimed at transitioning the economy toward higher value-added industries and creating a competitive edge in the global market.
Agriculture, while no longer the dominant sector, continues to contribute to the nation’s economy. Beyond sugarcane, the cultivation of tea, fruits, and vegetables supports local consumption and regional trade. Initiatives to diversify agricultural output and incorporate agro-processing have added value to traditional practices.
Mauritius’s strategic location in the Indian Ocean enhances its role as a gateway between Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, further facilitating trade and investment. The government’s commitment to maintaining a stable political environment, along with targeted reforms and infrastructure improvements, has underpinned the island’s economic resilience.
Despite facing challenges such as global market fluctuations and rising international competition, Mauritius continues to adapt its policies and strategies. The combination of diversified industries, robust regulatory frameworks, and a focus on innovation ensures that Mauritius remains a model of economic transformation and sustainable development in the region. |
| Average Yearly Income: |
$66.57 |
| Gross Domestic Product (GDP): |
$1,877,629,947.00 |
| GDP per Capita: |
$516.63 |
| Gross National Income (GNI): |
$356,467,030.00 |
| Industries: |
|
| Military |
| History: |
|
| Soldiers: |
227,186 |
| Tanks: |
16,502 |
| Aircraft: |
11 |
| Ships: |
27 |
| Missiles: |
2 |
| Nuclear Weapons: |
0 |
| Last Updated: 02/24/2025 01:57 am |
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