the narrow fringing reef surrounding the island can be a maritime hazard
Climate:
tropical; heat and humidity moderated by trade winds
Agricultural:
NA.
Economy:
Phosphate mining had been the only significant economic activity, but in December 1987 the Australian Government closed the mine. In 1991, the mine was reopened by union workers. With the support of the government, Australian-based Casinos Austria International Ltd. built a $34 million casino on Christmas Island, which opened in 1993. As of yearend 1999, gaming facilities at the casino were temporarily closed but were expected to reopen in early 2000. Another economic prospect is the possible location of a space-launching site on the island.
Industry:
tourism, phosphate extraction (near depletion)
Ethnicgroups:
Chinese 61%, Malay 25%, European 11%, other 3%, no indigenous population
