Seychelles - Agriculture

Although agriculture has long been the basis of the Seychelles economy, it contributes only about 5% to GDP. Production in 1999 included coconuts, 3,000 tons; and bananas, about 2,000 tons. Tea planting began in the early 1960s. Other crops produced for export are cinnamon bark, vanilla, cloves, and patchouli (an essence used in soap and perfume). In 1999, the Seychelles exported 214 tons of cinnamon bark and 236 tons of tea. Sweet potatoes, yams, breadfruit, and cassava are grown in small quantities but are not sufficient to satisfy the local demand. Oranges, lemons, grapefruit, bananas, and mangoes meet the local requirement only in season.