India is a major development partner of Mauritius. This relationship is marked by robust trade and mutual economic cooperation. During the financial year 2023-24, Indian exports to Mauritius reached an impressive $778.03 million, while Mauritian exports to India stood at $73.10 million, resulting in a total trade volume of $851.13 million. For the calendar year 2023, the figures were equally significant, with total trade amounting to $701 million, comprising $646 million in Indian exports and $55 million in Mauritian exports.
The trade relationship between Mauritius and India is defined by a diverse range of goods. India’s top five exports to Mauritius include:
- Mineral fuels (16% market share in Mauritius)
- Motor vehicles (10%)
- Pharmaceuticals (10%)
- Cotton (9%)
- Cereals (6%)
Meanwhile, Mauritius’s top exports to India include:
- Iron & steel (47% market share of Mauritian exports)
- Medical or surgical instruments and apparatus (32%)
- Aluminium and related articles (10%)
- Wood & articles of wood (2%)
- Recovered (waste and scrap) paper (2%)
The Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA) between Mauritius and India has been pivotal in bolstering trade relations. Mauritius offers preferential access to India on 310 products, including Tariff Rate Quotas on 88 items such as spices, tea, plastic articles, wooden furniture, and automotive parts. Conversely, Mauritius benefits from preferential market access to India for 615 products, encompassing a variety of goods such as frozen fish, specialty sugar, biscuits, fresh fruits, juices, mineral water, alcoholic beverages, soaps, bags, medical and surgical equipment, and apparel.
A significant milestone in this partnership was the collaboration with the Southern India Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI), which has a legacy of over 100 years. The Economic Development Board Mauritius had the opportunity to meet a SICCI business delegation during their visit to Mauritius in November 2024 and share with them the investment opportunities in different sectors.
The EDB facilitated an interaction session for the Hon. H. Narsinghen, Junior Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration, and International Trade, with members of SICCI in Chennai. Hon. Narsinghen highlighted the strategic advantages of Mauritius as a gateway to Africa, presenting opportunities across sectors such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, banking, and hospitality.
The enduring partnership between Mauritius and India is a testament to the shared vision of economic growth and regional cooperation. With the frameworks like CECPA and active engagement between business communities, the future holds promising prospects for deepening this vibrant trade relationship.
Learn more about the CECPA with India : https://edbmauritius.org/market-access
