Overview of Mauritius

Profile

Mauritius is one of Africa's highest human development countries, having achieved economic diversification based on tourism, financial services, sugar production, and textiles. The territory consists of the volcanic main island, Rodrigues Island, and the Agaléga Islands, surrounded by coral reef lagoons. English is the official language, French is the business language, and Creole is the home language, coexisting harmoniously. Religious events include Hindu, Christian, and Islamic celebrations in peaceful coexistence. Security and sanitation are relatively good, with world-class air quality. Beautiful beach resorts, rich marine ecosystems, and the colonial heritage of the cultural capital Port Louis attract tourists.

Official name: Republic of Mauritius
Common name: Mauritius
Numeric code: 480
Alpha-3 code: MUS
Alpha-2 code: MU
Population: Approximately 1.266 million (2024 estimate) (2024)
Population density: Approximately 620 people/km²
Primary languages: English, French, Mauritian Creole, Bhojpuri, Hindi, Urdu
Major religions: Hinduism, Christianity, Islam
National anthem: Motherland
Calling code: +230
Internet TLD: .mu

History

After Dutch, French, and British rule from the 17th century, gained independence in 1968 and transitioned to a republic in 1992.

Dutch colonization began in 1638, introducing sugarcane and slave labor, but withdrew. France occupied in 1715, establishing plantation economy as "Isle de France." Britain seized control in 1810, and after the abolition of slavery in 1835, many indentured laborers from India flowed in, forming the basis of the current ethnic composition. On March 12, 1968, it gained independence as a Commonwealth realm, achieved economic growth through export processing zones and tourism development, and reorganized as a republic in 1992. Through repeated peaceful electoral transitions, it is known as one of Africa's most stable democracies.

Geography & climate

Volcanic central plateau and coastal lowlands spreading, characterized by encircling atoll lagoons and pure white beaches.

Tropical marine climate

Area: Africa / 2040 km²
Capital: Port Louis
Largest city: Port Louis
Coastal status: Yes

Natural resources

Sugarcane fields, Coral reefs, Tourism resources, Fishery resources (tuna), Bagasse energy, Basalt, Wind power, Solar power, Groundwater, Tropical fruits

Politics

Government: Parliamentary republic

Economy

Currency: Mauritian Rupee (MUR)

GDP (nominal): 150 billion USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): 364 billion USD (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: English, French, Mauritian Creole, Bhojpuri, Hindi, Urdu

Time zone: Mauritius Standard Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Indo-Mauritians, African Creoles, Franco-Mauritians, Chinese, Mixed

Life expectancy

74.6 years

Literacy rate

93%

National sports

Horse racing, Football, Boxing, Sega dance, Badminton, Athletics