Seychelles Charts Multi-Sector Growth Path as It Marks 50 Years of Independence
Seychelles is accelerating investment across financial services, infrastructure, tourism and the Blue Economy as it marks its 50th year of independence. With GDP reaching $2.32 billion in 2025 and GDP per capita of $17.67k - the highest in Africa according to IMF figures - the archipelago is projecting 3.4% GDP growth in 2027. A BB credit rating from Fitch Ratings, the absence of foreign exchange controls, and removal from the EU's list of non-cooperative tax jurisdictions are among the regulatory milestones underpinning its growing appeal to international investors.
Tourism remains a central pillar of the economy, with arrivals growing 13% in 2025, driven by expanding interest from the Gulf, Africa and Asia alongside established European and Indian markets. The government's strategy centres on high-value, low-impact growth, supported by ongoing hotel upgrades and expanding air connectivity. Beyond tourism, Seychelles is advancing its Blue Economy credentials - operating within the world's second-largest tuna-producing basin and handling around 80% of the region's tuna catch - while its financial services sector is gaining ground through updated legal frameworks, a dedicated virtual asset licensing regime, and an OECD Global Forum upgrade to largely compliant status. Infrastructure investment, including planned port and airport redevelopment, is intended to further cement Seychelles' position as a trade and connectivity hub linking Africa, Asia and Europe.
Source: CNBC Africa