| |
|
|
| |
Home
>
World
> Africa
> Mauritius
|
Business Profile
Economy: Sugar dominates Mauritius’ agricultural economy: raw and processed sugar accounts for one-quarter of the island’s export earnings. Tobacco and tea are the other main cash crops. Since independence in 1968, the Government has deliberately sought to develop the industrial and service components of the economy. The island’s industrial capacity is centred on a number of Export Processing Zones whose main products are clothing, textiles, consumer and industrial electronics, flowers and jewellery.
Mauritius’ service economy is based on tourism and financial service. Tourism is well established and now worth over US$500 million annually. The growth of financial services arose from a government initiative implemented in 1989; as a result, the island has since attracted more than US$1 billion of investment, mainly from South Africa and the Indian sub-continent. The island’s largest trading partners are France, the USA, Hong Kong, the UK and South Africa. Mauritius is a member of the Indian Ocean Commission, which promotes regional economic co-operation, and of the Southern African Development Community.
Business: Suits are often worn in business circles. Appointments should be made. English is widely understood in the business community. Office hours: Mon-Fri 0930-1600, Sat 0900-1200 (some offices only).
Commercial Information: The following organisation can offer advice: Mauritius Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Three Royal Street, Port Louis (tel: 208 3301; fax: 208 0076; e-mail: mcci@intnet.mu; website: www.mcci.org).
Copyright © 2003 Columbus Publishing Ltd.
Terms and Conditions apply.
|
|
|
|
|
