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Indian Ocean Tuna Cannery

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Industrial site
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Indian Ocean Tuna Cannery (Seychelles)

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Indian Ocean Tuna Ltd (IOT) is one of the world's largest tuna canning facilities, located near the port of Victoria on Mahé island. As the nation's largest private employer, the factory plays a decisive role in the economic stability of the Seychelles. Hundreds of tons of tuna are processed here daily, utilizing state-of-the-art technology for cleaning, steaming, and canning. The cannery operates as a joint venture between the Seychelles government and the global food giant Thai Union. Historically, the establishment of IOT marked the transition of the Seychelles from a purely tourism-oriented economy to a significant industrial hub in the Indian Ocean. The vast majority of its output, including well-known brands such as John West and Petit Navire, is destined for the European market. The facility adheres to the strictest international food safety and sustainability standards, including full traceability of the fish catch. Its strategic location adjacent to the deep-water port enables efficient logistics from fishing vessels directly to the processing lines. Consequently, IOT forms the centerpiece of the island nation's 'Blue Economy' strategy.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C272828292827262627272727
Rain mm20710910611594805562108117124164

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?
Indian Ocean Tuna Cannery in Seychelles is one of the country's largest employers and one of the most significant tuna canneries worldwide. It plays a central role in the fishing industry and export economy of the islands.
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Visiting
The cannery is typically not open to tourists, but the vast plant premises and loading facilities at the port are visible from public roads. Occasionally visits are arranged for professional groups, but not on a regular basis.
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Where to view it
The best viewpoint is the coastal road along Victoria's harbor, from where the factory halls and cranes are visible seawards. From the heights of Mont Fleuri you also get a good overview of the entire industrial area.
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Local products
Tuna cans from the factory are available in local supermarkets and duty-free shops in Seychelles. Tourists can also buy fresh tuna and other seafood at the fishing harbor market in Victoria.
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Active season
The cannery operates year-round at high capacity, though catch volumes may vary seasonally. The main tuna season typically runs from November to March, when fish abundance is highest.
Nearby
A visit to the tuna cannery can be combined with a tour of the capital Victoria and its botanical gardens. Nearby beaches like Beau Vallon and the Morne Seychellois National Park are also good destinations for a day trip.

Geography

Coordinates
-4.62500, 55.45600

Facts

  • Employs over 2,000 workers from various nationalities.
  • Processes up to 350-400 tons of tuna per day at peak capacity.
  • Originally established in 1995 through a strategic joint venture.
  • Exports nearly 90% of its total canned production to the European Union.
  • Primarily sources tuna from purse seine vessels operating in the Indian Ocean.
  • Features on-site wastewater treatment and fishmeal production facilities.

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Notable places around

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Sights in the town Indian Ocean Tuna Cannery (10)

Liberty Statue

A liberty statue near the tuna cannery.

Library fountain

A fountain in front of the library in the industrial area.

Unity Monument

Monument symbolizing unity, near the factory.

Museum of Natural History🏛 museum

Natural history museum, entrance fee 15 SCR for non-residents.

🕒 Mo-Th 8:30-16:30; Fr 8:30-12:00; Sa 9:00-13:00; PH closed

National Museum of History🏛 museum

Museum of Seychelles history, near the factory.

Clock Tower

A clock tower near the tuna cannery.

Codevar Building

Building of the Codevar development company in the industrial zone.

St. Paul's Cathedral

Anglican cathedral, a building in Seychelles.

Victoria Botanical Gardens

Botanical garden in Victoria featuring local plants.

Cruise Pirs Victoria

Berthing point for cruise ships in Victoria.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is produced in the factory?
The factory processes and packages tuna for export.
Can one visit the factory?
No, it is a private industrial facility without visitor access.
Why is this factory important?
It is one of the largest employers and foreign currency earners in Seychelles.
Where is the facility located?
It is located in the industrial zone near the port of Victoria.
What is the role in the region?
It forms the heart of the regional fish processing industry.
Indian Ocean Tuna Cannery: where is it located?
Indian Ocean Tuna Cannery is located in Seychelles.
Indian Ocean Tuna Cannery: what is there to see?
Highlights include Liberty Statue, Library fountain, Unity Monument.
Indian Ocean Tuna Cannery: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Indian Ocean Tuna Cannery: why is it worth visiting?
Indian Ocean Tuna Ltd (IOT) is one of the world's largest tuna canning facilities, located near the port of Victoria on Mahé island.
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