Country Profile: Cocos (Keeling) Islands
The Cocos (Keeling) Islands are a remote paradise located in the Indian Ocean, situated approximately halfway between Australia and Sri Lanka. Comprising 27 coral islands, it features a tropical climate with high humidity, and its flat terrain consists mainly of coral atolls. The islands have a small population of around 593 individuals, primarily of Cocos Malay descent, and maintain a non-self-governing status under Australian administration. The economy is largely reliant on copra production and tourism, with a structure reflecting its unique geographic and cultural heritage.
Geography
The Cocos (Keeling) Islands are located in Southeastern Asia, approximately 12 degrees south of the equator and 96 degrees east. The total land area is a modest 14 square kilometers, with a flat and low-lying terrain consisting of coral atolls that create a horseshoe shape around a lagoon.
- Area: 14 sq km
- Coastline: 26 km
- Highest point: South Point at 9 m
- Climate: Tropical, moderated by southeast trade winds
- Natural hazards: Cyclone season from October to April
People and Society
As of 2021, the population of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands is estimated to be around 593, with a median age of 40 years. The majority of residents identify as Cocos Islanders, with ethnic groups including Europeans and Cocos Malays. The predominant languages spoken are Malay (Cocos dialect) and English, reflecting the islands' cultural mix.
- Population (2021): 593
- Languages: Malay (68.8%), English (22.3%)
- Religions: 75% Muslim (predominantly Sunni)
- Age structure: 61.5% aged 15-64 years
Economy
The economy of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands predominantly revolves around agriculture and tourism, with industries focusing on copra products. Exports are mainly directed to the USA and Singapore, while imports are largely sourced from Australia.
- Main industries: Copra products, tourism
- Exports (2023): 31% to USA, 29% to Singapore
- Imports (2023): 87% from Australia
- Agricultural products: Vegetables, bananas, coconuts
Government
The Cocos (Keeling) Islands are a non-self-governing overseas territory of Australia, administered by the Australian government. The islands operate under a common law legal system based on the Australian model, and the local governance structure includes a unicameral Shire Council.
- Capital: West Island
- Government type: Non-self-governing territory of Australia
- National holiday: Australia Day, observed on January 26
- Suffrage: Voting age is 18 years
Military and Security
The defense of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands is the responsibility of Australia, reflecting its status as an Australian territory. There are no indigenous military forces stationed on the islands.
Energy
Details on energy resources are limited; however, the islands have restricted freshwater resources and face challenges related to energy supply.
Environment
The islands deal with environmental issues such as limited freshwater resources and illegal fishing activities. The tropical climate contributes to the ecological uniqueness of the location.
- Environmental issues: Limited freshwater resources, illegal fishing
- Climate: Tropical with high humidity
Transportation
The islands have one airport, facilitating air travel for both residents and tourists.
- Airports: 1 (as of 2025)
Communications
The communication infrastructure includes a local radio station and access to satellite broadcasts from Australia. Internet connectivity is limited, with a small percentage of the population utilizing online services.
- Internet users: Approximately 13.4% of the population (2021 est.)
- Internet country code: .cc
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 593 | Total population (2021 est.) |
| Area | 14 sq km | Total land area |
| Median age | 40 years | Median age of the population (2021 est.) |
| Main industries | N/A | Copra products, tourism |
| Exports | N/A | Major partners include the USA and Singapore |
| Imports | N/A | Major partner: Australia |
| Languages | N/A | Predominant languages spoken |
| Religions | N/A | Predominant religion |
| National holiday | N/A | Australia Day (January 26) |
| Airports | 1 | Number of airports (2025) |
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