1. Could you start by giving us an overview of the main priorities of the Ministry of Commerce and Consumer Protection in strengthening Mauritius' trade and economic resilience?
When we regained power in November 2024, one of our main promises was to bring down prices for consumers. Since COVID-19, global prices have risen sharply, and Mauritius has also been affected by the depreciation of the rupee.
When we were last in power between 2005 and 2014, one euro was about 38 rupees; today it is around 54. One U.S. dollar was 28 or 29 rupees; now it’s around 46 or 47. So, everything we import has become more expensive.
We are working to change this situation by improving management across ministries and placing the right people in the right positions. Coming from a family business background, our family started the first supermarket in Mauritius, I understand how markets and pricing work.
Currently, the government provides large subsidies on essential products such as flour, LPG gas, and rice. For example, a 12 kg LPG cylinder costs around 600 rupees but sells for only 190 rupees. The same applies to flour and other basics. While this protects consumers, it creates a heavy fiscal burden.
We recently introduced subsidies on five essential items, milk powder, edible oil, cheddar cheese, infant milk, and baby diapers. People have responded positively, and we are preparing a second list of subsidized basic products.
2. Mauritius has positioned itself as a gateway between Africa and Asia. How is your ministry enhancing trade facilitation and competitiveness in this strategic role?
I recently attended the India-Africa Conclave, where I emphasized Mauritius’ role as a hub connecting Asia, particularly India and China, to Africa. For the past 18 years, Mauritius has ranked first in Africa for security, and around 20th to 22nd globally. Security is vital, without it, there can be no business.
Mauritius offers strong infrastructure and fast processes compared to many African countries. Every time you visit, you can see major improvements, especially in roads and highways. Our tourism and offshore sectors are thriving, but we face a shortage of labor. Like Dubai, we must import workers from India and Madagascar, where people are young, dynamic, and eager to learn.
Investors from India and Africa have shown strong interest in Mauritius, particularly in property development and hospitality. The country offers excellent conditions, stability, quality infrastructure, and a friendly investment climate.
3. The government has been improving the ease of doing business. What recent reforms or initiatives has your ministry introduced to support local and foreign investors?
We work closely with the Economic Development Board (EDB), which provides critical support to both local and foreign investors. For local businesses looking to expand abroad, EDB helps cover costs related to trade fairs, travel, and accommodation.
For foreign investors, EDB assists with regulatory guidance, land acquisition, and investment procedures. My ministry also collaborates with EDB on sector-specific projects, for example, in manufacturing, or automotive industries, to define criteria and provide practical support.
4. Consumer protection is becoming increasingly complex in a digital economy. How is Mauritius adapting its regulatory framework to ensure fair and transparent e-commerce practices?
That’s a very timely question. Back in 2010, I began working on the Consumer Protection Bill, but it was delayed after government changes. Now, we are bringing it back. In fact, this week the new Consumer Protection Bill, covering e-commerce, goes to Cabinet.
E-commerce has grown rapidly, especially since COVID-19. Unfortunately, many online sellers operate informally, without licenses or tax compliance. We consulted with consumer associations and business groups, such as the Mauritius Chamber of Commerce and the General Retailers Association, to create a modern, inclusive legal framework. Once approved by Cabinet and Parliament, this new law will ensure fairer, more transparent digital commerce.
5. Price stability and market transparency are critical for consumer confidence. What measures are being taken to address inflation and protect purchasing power?
Education is key. We encourage consumers to buy intelligently, not to stick to one brand, but to compare prices and quality. The government also enforces maximum markups on essential goods such as milk, edible oil, rice, and flour to prevent overpricing.
For example, a small loaf of bread in Geneva costs about €2, while in Mauritius it’s only 2.60 rupees, the same price for over a decade. Bread is a basic product that every Mauritian must afford. By combining subsidies and regulated markups, we ensure access to essential goods while controlling inflation.
6. SMEs are at the heart of Mauritius’ economy. What support mechanisms are in place to help SMEs access markets and upgrade their skills?
SMEs now fall under the Ministry of Business, but when I held that portfolio in 2010, we had excellent support schemes. For example, the government provided 50% grants for investments in machinery and technology, or 90% support under refundable schemes.
Today, we continue to assist SMEs through trade facilitation, issuing SADC and COMESA certificates and helping them access regional and global markets.
7. Digital transformation is reshaping trade and consumer behavior. How is your ministry leveraging data and innovation to modernize its operations?
We are moving steadily toward digitalization. Import permit applications, for instance, are being automated.
Digitalization is essential, not only for commerce but across the public sector. It reduces bureaucracy, increases transparency, and makes government services more accessible to people in all regions.
8. Mauritius has growing trade relations with Gulf countries, especially the UAE, following the CEPA agreement. What opportunities do you see for expanding partnerships in commerce, retail, and logistics?
The UAE has great financial strength and purchasing power. Mauritius, on the other hand, offers a stable, efficient, and pleasant environment for investment. It’s easy to do business here.
We are very open and responsive. When I meet investors abroad, I always tell them: if you encounter delays or challenges, contact me directly, and I will assist. Whether in hospitality, real estate, retail, or logistics, Mauritius offers strong potential. Our many shopping malls and growing tourism industry provide excellent opportunities for Gulf investors, supported by the EDB and relevant ministries.
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