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Seychelles: Seychelles Tourism Profile

2015/01/29

Seychelles Recreates Heaven On Earth

 

Tourism is the most important non-government sector of Seychelles’ economy. About 15 percent of the formal work force is directly employed in tourism and employment in construction, banking, transportation and other activities is closely tied to the tourist industry.

Tourism is a vital industry for the Seychelles; a lot of efforts are being made by the country´s tourism board to attract visitors.

The direct contribution of the tourism sector to GDP was estimated at 50 percent, and it provides about 70 percent of total foreign exchange earnings

Tourists enjoy the Seychelles’ coral beaches and opportunities for water sports. Wildlife in the archipelago is also a major attraction.

In 1991 France was the leading source of tourists followed by the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, and South Africa. Europe provided 80 percent of the total tourists and Africa, mostly South Africa and Reunion, most of the remainder. European tourists are considered the most lucrative in terms of length of stay and per capita spending

Regulatory Framework

Ministry of Tourism

The Ministry of Tourism is the authority responsible for overseeing tourism in Seychelles

Tourism board

Tourism Board is responsible for implementing Seychelles’ national tourism policy, promoting the destination, research, product development, monitoring of standards and coordinating with its tourism offices, representative agencies and Seychelles Tourism Ambassadors abroad.

World Bank Indicators - seychelles - Travel & tourism
 
 
 

Emergence of Russia, South Africa and Asia as important source markets
With inbound tourism from Europe slowing down due to recessionary conditions, Russia, Asia and Africa have emerged as the fastest growing regions for inbound tourism. Russia, India, UAE and South Africa have emerged not only as important markets but India and UAE have also emerged as key destinations for outbound tourism.
 
Depreciation of local currency has contrasting effects on tourism
 
Inbound tourism value benefited from depreciation of local currency versus the Euro since 80% of inbound tourism volume is from Europe. However, it had a negative effect on outbound tourism as trips to EU countries become more expensive. Similarly, departures to the leading destination, Mauritius also became more expensive.
 
Recession to impact inbound tourism for two to three years
 
Inbound tourism volume is expected to decline until around 2010 as EU economies slide into recession. The slowdown became evident towards the last quarter of 2008. Resurgence is expected in 2011 and beyond.