Mauritius Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Mauritius, Indian Ocean State; 2,000 km², 1.3 million residents (2019).Mauritius, located 800 km east of Madagascar, comprises the main island of Mauritius and the volcanic island of Rodrigues 585 km east of it. Mauritius also makes territorial claims on the Chagos Islands. The capital is Port Louis (148,100 residents, 2018).

Country facts

Republic of Mauritius / Republic of Mauritius
Country abbreviation: MU
Area: 2 000 km²
Population (2019): 1.3 million residents
Capital: Port Louis
Main languages: English, Mauritian
State: Republic
Head of State: Pradeep Roopun (President)
Head of Government: Pravind Jugnauth
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 11,239
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 12,050
Currency: 1 Mauritian rupee = 100 cents
Currency code: MUR
Country number (telephony): 230
Internet domain name: mu
Time difference compared to Sweden: +3
National Day: March 12 (Independence Day, 1968)

Nature

Land use: forest (29%), agricultural land (52%), pasture land (19%)
Highest mountain: Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire (828 m asl)

Population

Population density (2019): 650 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 0.1%; birth rate 10 ‰, death rate 9 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (18%), 15-64 (71%), 65- (11%)
Life expectancy (2019): men 71 years, women 78 years
Infant mortality (2019): 14 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 1 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.790 (place 65 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 41%
Most populous cities (2018): Port Louis (148,100 residents), Vacoas – Phoenix (106,200), Beau Bassin – Rose Hill (104,400)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture 4%), industry (22%), service (74%)
Exports (2017): US $ 2 360 million
Main export product: clothing, textiles, sugar
Main exporting countries: France, USA, UK
Imports (2017): US $ 4,986 million
Main import product: machinery, food
Main importing countries: India, China, France
Railway network: nothing in operation

Geography of Mauritius

Location and Boundaries

Mauritius is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean, approximately 2,000 kilometers off the southeast coast of the African continent, to the east of Madagascar. The country is situated in the southern hemisphere, about 870 kilometers to the east of the island of Réunion, which is a French overseas department. Mauritius is part of the Mascarene Islands, which also include Réunion and Rodrigues, an island located around 560 kilometers to the east of the main island of Mauritius.

The total land area of Mauritius is about 2,040 square kilometers, making it one of the smallest island nations in the world. Despite its small size, the country has a diverse geography that includes coastal plains, rugged mountains, and lush forests. The island is surrounded by coral reefs, which provide both ecological benefits and protection from the open sea.

Terrain and Landscape

Mauritius is a volcanic island, with much of its landmass formed by lava flows and volcanic activity that occurred millions of years ago. The island is characterized by a central plateau surrounded by mountain ranges, with the highest peak, Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire, reaching 828 meters above sea level. The island’s coastline is indented with picturesque bays, coves, and sandy beaches, which are major attractions for tourists.

The interior of the island is dominated by mountainous terrain, with several peaks and craters formed by ancient volcanic activity. The island’s fertile soil supports a variety of agricultural crops, including sugarcane, which has historically been a key part of the country’s economy. Much of the island’s rainforests and tropical vegetation can be found in the upland areas, while coastal regions are characterized by flat terrain, which is used for urban development and agriculture.

Rivers and Lakes

Mauritius has several rivers, with the largest being the Black River and the Grand River South East. These rivers, along with numerous smaller streams and waterfalls, flow through the island’s central plateau and eventually reach the sea. The rivers are an important source of freshwater for the island and play a vital role in agriculture and the supply of water to urban areas.

Lakes are also present, with the largest being the Grand Bassin, a sacred lake located in the central highlands, which is a key place of pilgrimage for Hindus in Mauritius. This lake is surrounded by lush forests and is known for its stunning natural beauty. The island’s rivers and lakes are integral to its natural ecosystem, supporting both plant and animal life and providing water resources for human use.

Climate of Mauritius

Tropical Climate

Mauritius enjoys a tropical climate, characterized by two distinct seasons: a warm, humid summer and a cooler, dry winter. The summer season, which lasts from November to April, is marked by higher temperatures, with average highs of 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), and higher humidity levels. The winter season, from June to September, sees cooler temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), with lower humidity and more moderate weather.

The island’s tropical climate makes it a popular destination for tourists year-round, although the summer months are generally considered the peak season due to the warmth and ideal beach conditions.

Rainfall and Cyclones

Rainfall is fairly consistent across the island, although the east and southeast parts of Mauritius are wetter than the west. The island experiences a rainy season during the summer months, with the heaviest rains typically occurring between January and March. These rains are often brought by tropical cyclones, which can occasionally affect the island. While cyclones are a threat to the island’s infrastructure, Mauritius has developed sophisticated systems for cyclone forecasting and disaster preparedness.

In addition to cyclones, Mauritius also experiences heavy, localized rainfall, especially in the mountainous regions. The rainforests of Mauritius depend on these seasonal rains to maintain their biodiversity, but intense rainfall can also lead to flooding in low-lying areas.

Trade Winds

The climate is moderated by the southeast trade winds that blow year-round, cooling the coastal areas and making them more pleasant even during the warmest months. These winds, along with the island’s geography, contribute to the relatively mild conditions experienced in the coastal regions, especially along the island’s popular beaches.

People of Mauritius

Population and Demographics

Mauritius has a population of approximately 1.3 million people, with most residents living in the urban areas of the island, particularly in the capital city of Port Louis. The population density is high, especially in the central and coastal regions, which are the hubs of economic and cultural activity. Despite its small size, Mauritius is a highly urbanized country, with around 40% of the population residing in or near Port Louis, the commercial and political center of the nation.

Mauritius is known for its demographic diversity, with people of various ethnicities, religions, and cultural backgrounds coexisting harmoniously. The population has grown steadily over the years, and the country is characterized by its youthful population, with a significant proportion of people under the age of 30.

Ethnicity and Languages

The ethnic composition of Mauritius is diverse, with the population primarily divided into four main groups: Indo-Mauritians (of Indian origin), Creoles (of African descent), Sino-Mauritians (of Chinese origin), and Franco-Mauritians (of European origin). Indo-Mauritians, who are descendants of Indian laborers brought to the island during British colonial rule, make up the largest ethnic group, followed by Creoles, who have roots in the African slave trade. There are also significant communities of Chinese and European ancestry, with each group contributing to the cultural and economic fabric of the island.

The official language of Mauritius is English, but the most widely spoken language is Mauritian Creole, a French-based creole language. French is also widely used in business, media, and education. Additionally, many Mauritians are bilingual or multilingual, speaking languages such as Hindi, Urdu, and Bhojpuri, particularly within the Indo-Mauritian community.

Religion and Beliefs

Mauritius is one of the most religiously diverse countries in the world. The majority of the population (around 48%) practices Hinduism, followed by Christianity (about 30%), Islam (around 17%), and smaller communities practicing Buddhism and other faiths. Hinduism is the dominant religion due to the large number of Indo-Mauritians, many of whom are descendants of Indian indentured laborers brought to the island during the British colonial period.

Religious festivals are a significant part of Mauritian culture, with major celebrations including Diwali, Maha Shivaratri, Eid al-Fitr, Christmas, and the Chinese New Year. These festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm and often involve public holidays, feasts, and religious ceremonies.

Economy of Mauritius

Economic Overview

Mauritius has a well-developed and diversified economy, with key sectors including tourism, textiles and clothing, sugar production, financial services, and information technology. The country has made significant strides in economic development since its independence in 1968, transitioning from a mono-crop economy dependent on sugar to a more diversified one that has integrated into the global economy.

The island’s strategic location, favorable climate, and highly educated workforce have made Mauritius an attractive destination for foreign investment. Economic reforms, particularly in trade liberalization, have further strengthened the country’s economy. Mauritius is often regarded as one of the most developed and stable economies in Africa.

Agriculture and Sugar Industry

Historically, Mauritius’s economy was heavily reliant on sugar production, and the sugar industry continues to be an important part of the economy. The island has fertile soils and a favorable climate for sugarcane cultivation, which has been the backbone of the economy for centuries. The sugar industry provides significant employment opportunities, and sugar remains one of the country’s key exports, along with its by-products like molasses and rum.

Agriculture in Mauritius is not limited to sugarcane, however. The island also produces fruits such as bananas, pineapples, and mangoes, as well as vegetables like potatoes and tomatoes. The government has been promoting diversification within the agricultural sector to reduce dependence on sugar production and ensure greater food security.

Tourism Industry

Tourism is one of the primary drivers of the Mauritian economy, attracting visitors from around the world due to its stunning beaches, tropical climate, and luxury resorts. Mauritius’s tourism sector is focused on eco-tourism, beach tourism, and cultural experiences. The island is known for its vibrant coral reefs, clear lagoons, and exclusive resorts, which cater to a high-end tourist market.

Tourism also supports other sectors such as hospitality, transportation, retail, and services. The island’s tourism infrastructure is highly developed, with numerous hotels, resorts, and restaurants, as well as facilities for sports and recreational activities such as golf, watersports, and hiking.

Financial Services and Information Technology

Mauritius has developed a strong financial services sector, particularly in banking, insurance, and offshore services. The country’s favorable tax environment, political stability, and strong legal framework have made it a popular destination for international businesses and investors seeking to establish a presence in Africa and Asia.

The information technology (IT) sector is also growing rapidly, with Mauritius positioning itself as an outsourcing hub for companies involved in business process outsourcing (BPO), software development, and digital services. The government has invested in infrastructure and policies to foster the growth of the IT sector, and the country is now recognized as one of Africa’s leading IT services providers.

Government of Mauritius

Political System and Structure

Mauritius is a democratic republic with a parliamentary system of government. The country operates under a multi-party system, with elections held every five years. The head of state is the president, who is elected by the National Assembly and serves as a ceremonial figure. The head of government is the prime minister, who is the leader of the majority party or coalition in the National Assembly.

The Mauritian government is based on the Constitution of 1968, which provides for the separation of powers among the executive, legislative, and judiciary branches. The National Assembly is the country’s legislature, with 70 members elected by a mixed system of first-past-the-post and proportional representation.

Electoral System and Political Parties

Mauritius’s political system has traditionally been dominated by two main parties: the Labour Party and the Militant Socialist Movement (MSM). In recent years, several smaller parties have also emerged, reflecting the growing diversity of political views in the country. The political scene in Mauritius is characterized by coalition governments, as no single party has consistently gained an outright majority in the National Assembly.

Mauritius is known for its relatively peaceful and stable political environment, with regular democratic elections and smooth transitions of power. However, the country has also faced challenges related to corruption, ethnic tensions, and political patronage.

Judiciary

The judiciary in Mauritius is independent and based on English common law, which was inherited from the British colonial period. The country’s judicial system includes the Supreme Court, which serves as the highest court in the country, as well as lower courts that handle civil, criminal, and administrative cases. Mauritian law is a blend of British common law and French civil law, reflecting the country’s colonial heritage.

Culture of Mauritius

Arts and Music

Mauritius has a rich cultural heritage influenced by its diverse population, which includes people of Indian, African, European, and Chinese descent. This diversity is reflected in the island’s art, music, and dance traditions, which combine elements from various cultures. Traditional Mauritian music includes sega, a lively and rhythmic style of music that originated with the African slaves brought to the island. Sega music is typically accompanied by drums and the ravanne, a traditional instrument, and is an integral part of the country’s cultural identity.

Mauritian literature, both in French and English, is another important aspect of its cultural life. Writers such as Lindsey Collen and Ananda Devi have gained international recognition for their work, often focusing on themes related to identity, social justice, and the country’s colonial past.

Festivals and Traditions

Mauritius is known for its vibrant festivals, many of which celebrate the country’s multi-ethnic makeup. Hindu festivals such as Diwali and Maha Shivaratri are widely celebrated, as are Muslim holidays like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. The Chinese community also celebrates the Chinese New Year with festivities in Port Louis and other towns.

Mauritian festivals are a blend of religious, cultural, and national events. Public holidays and national celebrations such as Independence Day and Labour Day are marked by parades, music, and performances. The island’s diverse population and heritage make Mauritius a vibrant, multicultural society where people of different backgrounds come together to celebrate their shared culture.

History of Mauritius

Early History and Settlement

Mauritius has a long history of human settlement, with evidence of early Arab, Malay, and Portuguese exploration of the island. However, the first permanent settlers were the Dutch in the 16th century, followed by the French in the 17th century, who colonized the island and developed it for sugar production. During French rule, the island became an important center for trade, particularly in the Indian Ocean.

In 1810, the British took control of Mauritius after defeating the French in the Napoleonic Wars. The British maintained colonial rule for almost 150 years, during which time the island became a major sugar producer and a key point of trade in the Indian Ocean.

Road to Independence

Mauritius gained independence from Britain on March 12, 1968, after a peaceful struggle for self-governance. The island became a republic in 1992, with a parliamentary system of government. The independence movement was led by figures such as Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, who is regarded as the father of the nation and the first prime minister of Mauritius.

Modern History and Development

Since its independence, Mauritius has experienced significant economic growth, transitioning from a monocultural sugar economy to a more diversified one with a strong emphasis on tourism, financial services, and manufacturing. The country has made remarkable strides in poverty reduction, healthcare, and education, and is considered one of the most developed nations in Africa.

However, Mauritius has faced challenges related to political corruption, social inequalities, and environmental issues such as coastal erosion and the impacts of climate change. Despite these challenges, Mauritius remains a stable democracy and one of the most prosperous countries in the region, with a thriving economy and a rich, diverse culture.