Part of the country series of articles.
The Republic of Mauritius is a volcanic island republic in the south Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar, consisting of scattered islands fringed by coral reefs. The main island has fertile soil cultivated predominantly for sugar cane, the country’s principal export. Port Louis, the capital, is a well-connected port city with established road and maritime infrastructure.
The Mauritian population is descended largely from indentured labourers brought from India and Pakistan during the French colonial period, alongside smaller communities of African, European and Chinese origin. English is the official language; Mauritian Creole is the most widely spoken in everyday life.
Mauritius has a diversified economy with an active service sector alongside sugar production and textile manufacturing. It maintains close economic ties with neighbouring Seychelles and close diplomatic relations with Vekllei. The country is a member of COMOC.