28 Aug 2024 • Conference

From Local to Global: EDB Masterclass Equips SMEs for International Markets

The Economic Development Board (EDB) held a Masterclass on Export Capacity Building on August 27 and 28, 2024, at its auditorium in Ebene, attracting representatives from around seventy SMEs. This event is part of a broader initiative outlined in the 2023 budget, which aims to equip 120 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with the skills and insights necessary to help them achieve the “Made in Moris” label.

In his opening statement, Mr Hemraj Ramnial, CSK, Chairman of EDB, emphasized the importance of this Masterclass as a coordinated effort to promote Mauritian exports. He highlighted the significance of the “Made in Moris” label, noting that while 170 enterprises are currently associated with the label, there is a pressing need for these companies to engage in export activities. “The EDB’s role in facilitating export promotion through the coordination of various public institutions aims to simplify the complexities involved in accessing international markets”, stated the Chairman. He also pointed out that with the free trade agreements signed by Mauritius, local businesses can benefit from tariff preferences on markets that encompass nearly 70% of the world’s population.

Mr Ramnial shared statistics about Mauritius’s export landscape mentioning that in 2023 alone, total goods exports reached MUR 83.7 billion, largely driven by domestic exports of MUR 61.5 billion. He underlined the top exported domestic products, including tuna, sugar, and men’s clothing, while also identifying South Africa and the UK as key markets for local goods. He added that various policies and support programs administered by the EDB, such as the Trade Promotion and Marketing Scheme and the Export Credit Guarantee Scheme, are crucial in fostering a robust export environment.

Mr Sylvan Oxenham, Vice Chairman-Treasurer of the Association of Mauritian Manufacturers and Chairman of “Made in Moris”, praised the strategic budgetary measures that have emerged from sustained public-private dialogue. Mr Oxenham noted the promising recovery and growth within the manufacturing sector, which reached MUR 68 billion in value-added contributions in 2022, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. He underscored the necessity of recalibrating the manufacturing sector as central to developmental strategies, wishing to leverage local production quality as a gateway to regional economic growth.

The Masterclass provided specific training sessions on crucial export-related topics, including customs and shipping procedures, free trade agreement opportunities, and contract dispute resolution. Sessions were led by experts sharing insights from their respective fields.

The Masterclass also saw the participation of various public institutions and organizations, including the Mauritius Revenue Authority – Customs, the Ministry of Commerce and Consumer Protection, and the MCCI, which provided SMEs with comprehensive knowledge and practical strategies to enhance international trade ventures.