Basic Introduction to Seychelles

The capital is Victoria, which is situated on the largest island, Mahé. The currency is the Seychellois rupee (SCR). Languages spoken are French, English and Seychellois Creole.

The government, known as the National Assembly, is an elected body. The president appoints the cabinet, subject to legislature approval.

The Seychelles is a beautiful island nation and, with the opening of its international airport in 1971, has fast become a desirable tourist destination. Tourism is now the main economic driver, but farming and fishing still employs about 5% of the population. The government has actively encouraged foreign investment in hotels and resorts to support continuing tourism.

The offshore financial sector has flourished in recent years with the establishment of the Seychelles International Business Authority (SIBA) and associated legislation. The new legislation, the International Business Companies Act 1994, has smoothed and expedited the establishment of offshore companies to encourage international investment.

There are regular scheduled flights to and from most of the main international cities, including London, Paris, Madrid, Rome, Frankfurt, Dubai, Bahrain, Nairobi, Singapore, Johannesburg etc. making it convenient for businesses.