Country Profile: British Indian Ocean Territory
The British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) is an overseas territory of the United Kingdom, primarily located in the central Indian Ocean and consisting of the Chagos Archipelago. The territory has no permanent inhabitants, with Diego Garcia being the sole inhabited island, which serves as a key military base for the UK and the US. The economy is small and heavily reliant on military installations, with recent developments such as the resolution of disputes with Mauritius leading to increased oil exports.
Geography
The British Indian Ocean Territory is an archipelago comprising 55 islands, with Diego Garcia being the largest and most significant for military operations. The total land area is approximately 60 sq km, while the surrounding maritime zone extends to 54,340 sq km of water. The climate is tropical marine, characterized by hot, humid conditions moderated by trade winds. Notably, Diego Garcia has a flat terrain with the highest point reaching just 9 m above sea level.
- 60 sq km: Total land area
- 698 km: Length of coastline
- 200 nm: Territorial sea claim
- 0%: Agricultural land use
- 0 m: Elevation of the lowest point (Indian Ocean)
People and Society
The British Indian Ocean Territory currently has no permanent residents as the population primarily consists of military personnel stationed at the Diego Garcia base. The island is home to a joint UK-US military facility, which underscores its strategic importance in the region.
- 0: Permanent inhabitants
- 58 islands: Number of islands in the territory
Economy
The economy of the BIOT is predominantly focused on Diego Garcia, which hosts military installations and has recently seen increased oil exports following resolved disputes with Mauritius. Commercial fishing is limited due to the established marine reserve, and imports largely include refined petroleum and various construction materials.
- 86%: Exports to Singapore (2023)
- 1%: Exports to the USA (2023)
- 52%: Imports from Greece (2023)
- Refined petroleum: Top import commodity (2023)
Government
The British Indian Ocean Territory is administered as an overseas territory of the UK, governed by a commissioner based in London. The legal framework follows UK law, and the territory is represented by a military officer on Diego Garcia. The territory's constitution was established in 2004, and its governance is deeply connected to British sovereignty.
- King CHARLES III: Chief of state since 2022
- Nishi DHOLAKIA: Head of government since 2024
- UTC+6: Time difference from Washington, DC
Military and Security
The territory does not maintain any regular military forces; however, its defense is the responsibility of the United Kingdom. An agreement signed in 2025 ensures the transfer of sovereignty of the Chagos Archipelago to Mauritius while allowing the UK to lease Diego Garcia for military purposes for 99 years.
- 2025: Year of the sovereignty transfer agreement
- Full operational control maintained by the UK
Energy
Energy consumption specifics are not detailed in the provided data; however, the economy relies significantly on imported refined petroleum for operational needs.
Environment
Environmental concerns primarily revolve around the discharge of wastewater into the lagoon near Diego Garcia. Given its tropical marine climate, the territory is free from significant natural hazards, as it lies outside common cyclone pathways.
- 100%: Land use categorized as "other" (non-agricultural)
- 0%: Agricultural land, reflecting minimal environmental disturbance
Transportation
The British Indian Ocean Territory has limited transportation infrastructure, primarily focused on military logistics. There is one airport on Diego Garcia, which facilitates the movement of personnel and goods.
- 1: Airport operational (2025)
- 1: Port available, including an oil terminal
Communications
Communications in the territory are primarily for military use, with Armed Forces Radio and Television Service broadcasting for personnel. Diego Garcia hosts a vital ground antenna for the Global Positioning System (GPS).
- .io: Internet country code
- 3: Frequencies used for military broadcasts
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Area | 60 sq km | Total land area |
| Population | 0 | No permanent inhabitants |
| Exports to Singapore | 86% | Major export partner (2023) |
| Imports from Greece | 52% | Major import partner (2023) |
| Coastline | 698 km | Length of the coastline |
| Highest Point | 9 m | Elevation on Diego Garcia |
| Territorial Sea | 12 nm | Maritime claims |
| Marine Reserve | Established | Limits fishing activities |
| Legal System | UK laws apply | Governed under UK jurisdiction |
| Military Base | 1 | Joint UK-US facility on Diego Garcia |
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