Overview of TCI

Profile

Turks and Caicos Islands comprise two island groups - Turks Islands and Caicos Islands, located approximately 40km southeast of Bahamas chain. Though small at 948km², surrounded by some of world's finest coral reefs, it attracts travelers worldwide as diving and fishing mecca. Politically a British overseas territory with King Charles III as head of state, internal affairs handled by self-governing parliamentary cabinet system. Economic pillars are luxury resort tourism and offshore finance, with per capita GDP ranking high in Caribbean region. Official language English, adopting US dollar currency, resulting in especially high North American tourism. Year-round warmth with even rainy season featuring mainly brief squalls.

Official name: Turks and Caicos Islands
Common name: TCI
Numeric code: 796
Alpha-3 code: TCA
Alpha-2 code: TC
Population: 55,000 (2020)
Population density: 59
Primary languages: English
Major religions: Protestant
National anthem: God Save the King
Calling code: +1-649
Internet TLD: .tc

History

Uninhabited islands known for salt harvesting and pirate bases became British territory from 17th century, remaining British overseas territory today with self-governance.

Indigenous Lucayan people inhabited the islands, but area reportedly uninhabited by time of late 15th-century European arrival. Salt harvesters migrating from Bermuda in late 17th century established permanent settlement, consolidating British control. Incorporated into Bahamas and Jamaica administrative districts in 19th century, but when Bahamas gained independence in 1973, remained separate crown territory. In 2009, temporary direct British rule imposed due to corruption issues, but self-governance restored in 2012. Currently maintains stable political system with tourism and financial services as main industries.

Geography & climate

Low-lying limestone islands formed from uplifted coral reefs connected by turquoise lagoons. Inland features sparse low scrub and salt lakes, with world's third-largest barrier reef extending along perimeter.

Tropical savanna / oceanic

Area: North America / 948 km²
Capital: Cockburn Town
Largest city: Providenciales
Coastal status: Yes

Natural resources

Coral reefs, Conch, Lobster, Sea salt, Tourism resources, Solar power, Wind power, Limestone, Mangrove wetlands, Blue holes

Politics

Government: Parliamentary cabinet system under constitutional monarchy (British overseas territory)

Economy

Currency: United States Dollar (USD)

GDP (nominal): 1.06 billion USD (2020)

GDP (PPP): 0.94 billion USD (2020)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: English

Time zone: Eastern Standard Time, Eastern Daylight Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

African descent, Mulatto, European descent, Haitian immigrants, Bahamian immigrants

Life expectancy

81

Literacy rate

98

National sports

Soccer, Cricket, Sailing, Sport fishing, Beach volleyball