Mayotte Island economy: French dependent.

The Mayotte Island is what is termed as a territorial collectivity of France. It is administered by France, and elects one member of the French Senate, as also one of the French National Assembly.

As any typical small Island with limited resources, Mayotte has its share of problems. Rising sea levels, limited economic activity, lack of trained manpower, raw materials, compulstion to import major part of food and other requirements, are some of the issues faced by this Island. But for the fact that it is part of France, it might be in deeper trouble.

Mayotte’s economy is an agricultural economy, and produces vanilla, the popular essence, another essence called ylang ylang, copra, and coffee. As for industries, there is a tiny and developing lobster and shrimp industry that caters to the export market, and some construction activity. France of course, is the Island’s major trading partner, and Mayotte has full access to French markets though it is not in a position to exploit this benefit fully. Tourism however, has not developed much because of its remoteness, even though that factor could in fact become the very reason for developing this industry.

French financial aid plays an important role in the economy of Mayotte and contributes a good percentage of its GDP. The future development of the Island depends on France. The Island has one airport and a seaport, and roadways that are for most part paved.

The year 2011 is going to be an important date in Mayotte’s future as French laws would come into effect on the Island, and the local laws would come for a review and amendments. That could cause tension on the Island, and it remains to be seen how the situation may develop.