Overview

The Basics

Anguilla is a British overseas territory in the Caribbean located east of Puerto Rico. Its capital is The Valley. In addition to the main island of Anguilla, the territory consists of a number of small islands and cays that are mostly uninhabited.

There is little vegetation on the island of Anguilla as its soil is thin and poor, but Anguilla is famous for its spectacular coral reefs and white sand beaches.

The official language of Anguilla is English.

The total population of Anguilla is roughly 13,000. Over 90% of the residents of Anguilla are descendants of slaves transported from Africa. According to a 2001 census, 72% of the population is Anguillan with citizens of the U.S., the U.K., St Kitts & Nevis, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica making up the rest. In recent years there has been a large influx of Chinese, Indian, and Mexican immigrants who are being used to fill the labor shortage, particularly in the tourist industry.

The island has a long, rich cultural heritage beginning with the Arawak Indians. In many ways, its culture is similar to that of other Caribbean islands and most holidays are a combination of historical and cultural importance as in the case of the anniversary of emancipation. Also, British holidays such as the Queen’s birthday are observed.

Government and Economy

Andorra considers itself an internally self-governing overseas territory of the United Kingdom; however, the UN lists it as a non-self-governing territory.

Its government is set up as a parliamentary representative democratic dependency with the Chief Minister as the head of government. Her majesty’s government is responsible for appointing a governor. The government exercises executive power, while legislative power is shared between the government and the House of Assembly. The Judiciary is independent of both the executive and legislative branches of the government. The United Kingdom retains responsibility for military defense.

Anguilla lacks any significant land-based natural resources, and its poor soil makes it essentially unsuitable for agriculture. Its main industries include tourism, offshore incorporation and management, offshore banking, and fishing. Anguilla is home to numerous financial and insurance businesses.

Anguilla economy, especially the tourism sector, has been expanding rapidly since 2005 and the level of growth has gained speed since the beginning of 2007. This boom is expected to continue into the foreseeable future. Currently foreigners, or “non-belongers” are forbidden from buying land in Anguilla in order to prevent the economy from overheating.

Foreign Affairs

Anguilla is associated with the following international organizations: Caribbean Community, Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States, British overseas territories and crown dependencies, outlying territories of European countries, and the British Empire and Commonwealth of Nations.

British, Australian, Japanese, Canadian, EU, and American citizens can enter Anguilla with only a valid passport and a return ticket.

Legal System

The Anguillan legal system is based upon the British Common Law.

In October 2000, the government passed the International Business Companies Act which is a progressive piece of legislation allowing for flexible company structures and efficient incorporation procedures. The Act also guarantees the privacy of shareholders.