UAE delegation explores new investment frontiers in Mauritius
A high-level delegation from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) visited Mauritius from February 16 to 21 to explore investment opportunities and enhance economic relations between the two nations. Led by Humaid Mohamed Ben Salem, Secretary General of the UAE Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry, the visit marked a step forward in economic collaboration following the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement in July 2024. Blue Azurite gives you an insight into these discussions and a few pointers on how global investors looking for new ventures can benefit from them. Strengthening government ties On February 18, the delegation met with Adil Ameer Meea, Mauritius’ Minister of Industry, SMEs, and Cooperatives. Discussions centered on industrial development, SME support, and strengthening cooperative structures. Minister Ameer Meea highlighted Mauritius’ advantages as a business hub for Africa and encouraged Emirati firms to invest in key sectors such as pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, precision engineering, and agribusiness. Participation of key Emirati companies Several leading Emirati companies accompanied the delegation, including Etihad Airways, Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, and Presight Artificial Intelligence. Their presence signaled growing UAE interest in the Mauritian market, particularly in aviation, transport, and tourism. Etihad Airways engaged with local officials to explore ways to enhance air connectivity and related synergies. Expanding bilateral trade and investment Humaid Mohamed Ben Salem underscored the strength of UAE-Mauritius economic relations, noting that this was the fourth high-level visit of its kind. Since the 2024 economic partnership agreement, trade between the two countries has grown significantly. The UAE’s strategic position as a global trade hub and Mauritius’ role as a gateway to Africa create complementary opportunities in finance, logistics, and the digital economy. Opportunities for global investors in Mauritius The strengthening of UAE-Mauritius economic ties presents significant opportunities for foreign investors. Gateway to Africa and the Middle East Let’s not forget that Mauritius serves as a gateway to Africa with preferential trade agreements, while the UAE provides a launchpad into Middle Eastern and Asian markets. The business environment in Mauritius is highly favorable, with strong investor incentives, a streamlined regulatory framework, and tax advantages. The UAE’s free zones and well-developed financial ecosystem further support international trade. Tax and investment incentives Mauritius offers a 15% corporate tax rate with various exemptions, no capital gains or withholding tax on dividends, and a double taxation avoidance agreement benefiting UAE investors. Growing sectors for onvestment Investment opportunities are growing in industrial development, pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, agribusiness, artificial intelligence, digital economy, tourism, and aviation sectors. Manufacturing, engineering, and logistics are expanding, creating opportunities for businesses looking to establish a presence in Mauritius. The country is also prioritizing medical research and production, while UAE firms can invest in agribusiness to ensure stable food supply chains. The increasing role of artificial intelligence and digital transformation is attracting interest from Emirati tech firms exploring opportunities in AI, cybersecurity, and fintech. Strategic Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) Public-private partnerships are another key area of focus, allowing investors to collaborate with the Mauritian government on infrastructure, renewable energy, and financial services. Strong investment protection agreements safeguard foreign investors. Mauritius benefits from trade agreements with Africa (AfCFTA), the EU, and India, providing manufacturers with duty-free export access to major markets. The country’s financial and fintech growth also presents opportunities for offshore financial services, blockchain projects, and digital banking. Conclusion The UAE delegation’s visit underscored the commitment of both nations to deepening economic cooperation. The discussions and agreements formed during this trip could lead to substantial investments, unlocking new growth opportunities for Mauritius and the UAE. As trade relations expand, both countries are positioning themselves as strategic partners in an increasingly interconnected global economy. Government and business leaders will closely monitor the outcomes of this mission to capitalize on emerging opportunities. For businesses looking to navigate and seize these opportunities, Blue Azurite is here to guide you through investment strategies, regulatory frameworks, and market expansion, ensuring a seamless and profitable venture in Mauritius and beyond. Contact us now and benefit from the expertise of our dedicated team.
