Mauritius offers a stunning combination of unique travel attractions and a vibrant business environment, characterized by long-term economic stability, high growth rates, and a strategic geographic location that positions the island as a regional business hub connecting two continents. The Mauritian government offers a variety of investment incentive programs, as well as a well-defined legal and regulatory framework that ensures a favorable business climate.
The Mauritius International Finance Corporation (IFC) boasts over three decades of experience in cross-border investment and finance, and offers an unparalleled, well-regulated, and transparent platform. An internationally recognized jurisdiction with an impeccable reputation, IFC Mauritius is home to a number of international banks, law firms, corporate services companies, investment funds, and private equity funds.
With its modern infrastructure, innovative legal framework, and simplified business regime, IFC Mauritius offers a wide range of competitive financial products and services, including private banking, global business, insurance and reinsurance, limited liability companies, protected cell companies, trusts and foundations, investment banking, global headquarters management, and much more.
Besides being a sophisticated platform for cross-border investment, IFC Mauritius is well-positioned to play a critical role in attracting investment and promoting prosperity in Africa as a whole. The IFC is exploring new competitive business platforms and a wide range of investment opportunities for global companies looking to invest in Africa.
Mauritius offers excellent prospects for foreign companies in the development of port infrastructure due to its strategic location as a regional trade hub and the government's focus on the modernization of Port Louis.
The government encourages public-private partnerships (PPPs), creating opportunities for foreign companies to collaborate on projects. Mauritius's Blue Economy strategy further encourages investment in maritime infrastructure to support the fisheries and ocean-based industries.
As the country's sole maritime transport hub, Port Louis plays a vital role in the national economy. It handles approximately 99.5% of all foreign trade, equivalent to approximately 8 million tonnes of cargo annually, and directly contributes 2% to the country's GDP. The Mauritius Ports Authority (MPA) regulates and oversees the port sector, managing port infrastructure, associated facilities, and equipment. Cargo Handling Corporation (CHC) Ltd. is responsible for managing all port operations for container and general cargo handling. Port Louis is one of the deepest ports in the southwest Indian Ocean, capable of accommodating container ships with a draft of approximately 15 meters and a capacity of 12,000 TEUs.
In June 2025, the government announced plans for the Mauritius Ports Authority (MPA) to invest Rs 5.4 billion in projects such as expanding the cruise berth, constructing a small bunker barge berth, acquiring tugboats and expanding the Mauritius Container Terminal. These initiatives are in line with the broader goals of transforming Mauritius into a smart and green port and strengthening its position as a regional logistics hub.
Infrastructure Development. Foreign firms specializing in marine engineering and construction can contribute to the expansion of the cruise terminal, ensuring it meets international standards to accommodate larger vessels and increased passenger throughput.
Technology Solutions. Companies offering advanced passenger terminal technologies, such as automated check-in systems, security solutions, and baggage handling systems, can improve operational efficiency and the passenger experience.
Sustainability Expertise. Foreign firms can offer eco-friendly designs and materials to ensure the cruise terminal meets the objectives Mauritius's efforts to create a "green" port.
Bunkering infrastructure. Foreign companies specializing in bunkering systems can supply storage tanks, pipelines, and bunkering equipment for the new berth, supporting Mauritius's ambitions to become a global bunkering hub.
Environmental solutions. Companies offering spill prevention, waste management, and environmentally friendly bunkering systems can help ensure compliance with international environmental standards.
Digital monitoring systems. Foreign providers of digital monitoring and automation systems can improve the efficiency and safety of bunker barge operations.
Manufacturing Tugboats. Foreign manufacturers of modern tugboats can supply vessels equipped with modern propulsion systems, fire-fighting equipment, and energy-efficient engines.
Crew Training. Companies offering simulator-based tugboat operator training programs can support initiatives to build capacity and improve operational readiness.
Maintenance Services. Foreign firms specializing in the maintenance and repair of marine equipment can provide long-term support for acquired tugboats.
Port Automation. Foreign companies can supply automated container handling systems, including cranes, yard management technologies, and real-time tracking solutions, which can improve efficiency and reduce handling times.
Environmentally Friendly Equipment. Companies offering hybrid cranes and energy-efficient equipment can meet Mauritius's sustainability goals while modernizing the terminal.
Cold Chain Logistics. Foreign suppliers of refrigerated container technology and advanced warehouse systems can facilitate cargo diversification and improve services for perishable goods.
Terminal Design and Construction. Companies with experience in terminal design and construction can contribute to the expansion project, ensuring it meets international standards and can accommodate future facilities.
Smart Ports. Foreign companies specializing in digital solutions can provide integrated port management systems, automated gate systems, and AI-based traffic management tools to optimize operations and reduce congestion.
Cybersecurity Solutions. Companies providing cybersecurity services can help protect critical port infrastructure and data processing systems from potential threats.
Renewable Energy Solutions. Foreign companies can help integrate solar panels, wind turbines, and other renewable energy systems into port infrastructure to reduce carbon emissions.
Green Projects. Companies offering eco-friendly building materials and projects can contribute to the port's transformation into a "green" zone.
Environmental Consulting. Foreign firms with experience in environmental impact assessments and green project certification can help Mauritius meet international sustainability standards.
Workforce Development. Foreign organizations can provide training programs for port operators, cargo handling, and logistics professionals, ensuring that personnel are prepared to work with advanced technologies and environmentally friendly equipment.
Simulation technology. Companies specializing in simulator training can support initiatives to improve the skills of local operators, especially those operating tugboats and hybrid cranes.
Port management expertise. Foreign firms with experience in port management and operational efficiency can provide consulting services to optimize the performance of Mauritius ports and enhance their competitiveness.
Sustainability strategies. Consultants specializing in green logistics and environmental compliance can help Mauritius align its port operations with global sustainability trends.
Furthermore, Cargo Handling Corporation Ltd (CHCL) is committed to achieving, as part of its business plan, By 2025-2030, develop Port Louis into a leading transhipment hub, focusing on port automation, hybrid cranes, and digital transformation to improve efficiency and sustainability. Foreign companies specializing in intelligent logistics systems, environmentally friendly equipment, and refrigerated container solutions can support CHCL's modernization efforts.
Mauritius is strategically located on the east-west Indian Ocean route linking Africa and Asia, as well as on the trans-Pacific shipping route via the southern route around South Africa. This opens up opportunities for bunkering services. In 2014, Mauritius's bunker market was significantly liberalized, with government incentives in the form of reduced and waived fees and duties, as well as improved licensing and import permitting processes. Bunkering services are provided year-round by local suppliers, including Indian Oil (Mauritius) Ltd., Vivo Energy Mauritius Ltd., Total Mauritius Ltd., Engen (Mauritius) Ltd., and Stonewin (Mauritius) Ltd. Three grades of bunker fuel are currently available in Port Louis: GO 2500, FO 180, and FO 380. The Mauritius Port Authority has allocated land in the port area to private developers for the construction of additional storage facilities. Ship-to-ship transfer of bunker fuel is permitted only within the port boundaries and at anchorage.
Mauritius's strategic location on the Indian Ocean shipping route offers significant opportunities for foreign companies in the bunkering and oil production sectors. Key areas include the construction of oil terminals, the development of fuel storage facilities, and the supply of modern bunkering equipment and environmentally friendly fuel alternatives.
The liberalization of the bunkering market, coupled with government incentives such as exemptions from excise duty, VAT, and corporate tax, makes Mauritius an attractive investment destination. Foreign companies can also provide fuel management technology solutions, compliance consulting services, and training for local operators. Partnerships with established local suppliers open up additional opportunities for market entry and collaboration.
The biotechnology industry in Mauritius is young but growing. Since 2014, several companies have been operating in the specialized "Biopark," a modern infrastructure for biotechnology research and development. Government organizations such as the Mauritius Research and Innovation Council, the Centre for Biomedical and Biomaterials Research, and the Food and Agricultural Research and Extension Institute support the burgeoning biotechnology industry with their research. Currently, 18 companies operate in the biotechnology sector (excluding medical devices and pharmaceutical production). These companies are engaged in a variety of activities, such as clinical trials, primate breeding for export, and the production of fish oil and biofuels.
Furthermore, the Mauritius Institute of Biotechnology acts as an institutional catalyst and leads the development of the biotechnology sector, including medical biotechnology, agricultural biotechnology, marine biotechnology, industrial biotechnology, environmental biotechnology, and capacity building. MIBL provides technical support for the implementation of biotechnology projects, finances projects, advises ministries on the development of the biotechnology ecosystem, develops specific policy recommendations, and promotes a favorable and competitive biotechnology environment in Mauritius.
Leading subsectors:
Government of Mauritius Mauritius has declared its commitment to the development of the biotechnology industry. The new Industrial Property Act was passed in August 2019 to consolidate various elements of industrial property (patents, utility models, topographies of integrated circuits, plant breeders' rights, industrial designs, trademarks, trade names, and geographical indications). The 2019 Act also provides for Mauritius's accession to treaties administered by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), such as the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) for the international registration of patents, the Hague Agreement for the International Registration of Industrial Designs, and the Madrid Protocol for the Simplification of Trademark Registration.
Mauritius's biotechnology sector will benefit from a number of key incentives and initiatives aimed at promoting growth and innovation. These include:
Treatment is free in public hospitals in Mauritius, but there are also a few private clinics. Mauritius's healthcare infrastructure includes 5 major regional public hospitals, 2 public district hospitals and 6 specialised hospitals, including 1 psychiatric hospital; 1 respiratory hospital; 1 eye hospital; 1 ear, nose and throat hospital; 2 cardiology centres; and a new oncology hospital. There are also 26 private clinics and hospitals and 67 medical laboratories operating in the country.
Leading Subsectors
Mauritius has a well-developed healthcare system. Approximately 73% of the population's healthcare needs are met by public healthcare institutions, and 27% by the private sector.
In recent years, the Government of Mauritius has been actively promoting reforms in the healthcare sector aimed at developing high-impact areas such as high-tech medicine, medical tourism, and medical education.
There are potential opportunities for the creation of:
The medical device manufacturing industry has also demonstrated steady growth in recent years. Thanks to preferential access to the EU market, leading medical device manufacturers (mainly from France and Germany) have established facilities here. Key products manufactured in Mauritius for export include angioplasty catheters, stents, cardiovascular and oncology implants, artificial skin, ophthalmic implants, bone grafts and bone substitutes, orthopedic implants, and dental implants. To attract more medical device manufacturing companies, the government offers various incentives, including an eight-year tax holiday, a 3% corporate tax on profits earned from exports, a value-added tax on raw materials reimbursed upon export, a 15% investment tax credit for three years for investments in high-tech equipment, and discounts on air and sea freight for exports.
In 2021 and subsequent years, the government has introduced additional incentives to encourage the construction of pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturing plants, as well as clinical and preclinical trials. For example, developers are exempt from registration fees, land transfer taxes, land use change taxes, and construction VAT. Companies manufacturing medical devices and pharmaceuticals also benefit from a premium investment certificate, as well as a full tax deduction for patent acquisition costs for biotech and pharmaceutical companies. Companies operating in the medical, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical industries are taxed at a rate of 3%.
In June 2025, the new government announced various plans for the development of the healthcare sector. Key initiatives in the health sector, outlined in the Public Investment Programme (PIP) for 2025/26–2029/30, include the following:
Implementation of an e-health system, including software and hardware modernization, with a focus on the digitalization of hospital services and improvement of local networks for the delivery of digital health services.
A laboratory information management system (LIMS) for the government analytics department.
Construction of new district health centers (DHCs) in locations such as Cap Malheureux, New Grove, Plaine Magnien, and Curepipe.
Construction of new community health centers (CHCs) in locations such as Roche-Bois, Grand-Baie, and Trou d'Eau-Douce.
Modernization and renovation of existing medical offices, primary care centers, and medical clinics.
Construction of a new ENT center in Vacoas.
Development of a new oncology center in Solferino.
Construction of a modern ophthalmology hospital.
Construction of a new hemodialysis building at SSRN Hospital.
Acquisition of high-tech medical equipment, including telemedicine equipment and CCTV cameras for hospitals.
Modernization of air conditioning systems and other hospital infrastructure.
Construction of a centralized medical waste treatment facility (in preparation)
Construction of new hospitals, including a new Victoria Hospital, a new SSRN Hospital, and a new national laboratory.
Creation of a neurosurgical unit at SAJ Hospital and a new annex at Mahebourg Hospital.
The above plans open up opportunities for foreign companies specializing in healthcare technology, infrastructure, and equipment. The implementation of e-Health and laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is creating demand for advanced software, hardware, and IT solutions.
Construction and modernization of healthcare facilities, including regional health centers, community health centers, and specialized hospitals such as ENT, oncology, and ophthalmology units, present opportunities for architecture, engineering, and construction firms. Furthermore, a focus on acquiring high-tech medical equipment, such as telemedicine tools and video surveillance systems, is opening up opportunities for foreign manufacturers and suppliers of advanced medical technologies.
A planned centralized medical waste treatment facility and future projects, including new hospitals and specialized units, further expand opportunities for companies in waste management solutions, medical infrastructure, and advanced healthcare systems.
Mauritius relies heavily on pharmaceutical imports to supply both public and private healthcare facilities.
Pharmaceuticals may only be imported by wholesalers licensed by the Pharmaceutical Council, which operates under the auspices of the Ministry of Health and Wellness. The government primarily procures generic drugs through private hospitals, while pharmacies typically purchase branded products from local wholesalers. Currently, there is only one pharmaceutical manufacturing company operating in Mauritius.
The main categories of pharmaceutical products imported into Mauritius are:
Private pharmaceutical wholesalers represent the best export opportunities, as they import approximately 75% of all pharmaceutical products into Mauritius. Government procurement generally favors generics. Some private clinics occasionally conduct their own procurement.
Foreign companies could also consider manufacturing pharmaceuticals in Mauritius for the African market. As a member of SADC and COMESA, Mauritius provides duty-free access for its exports to member countries of these organizations, subject to compliance with the rules of origin. The government offers 8-year tax incentives, a 3% corporate tax on export profits, a tax credit for investments in high-tech manufacturing, and discounts on air and sea freight for new companies engaged in pharmaceutical manufacturing.
In 2021, the Mauritius government announced the establishment of the Mauritius Institute of Biotechnology (MIBL) to promote the development of local vaccine production. Subsequently, in June 2021, the EDB invited expressions of interest from local and international companies with relevant experience to undertake pharmaceutical and vaccine manufacturing projects in Mauritius.
Key initiatives for the pharmaceutical sector in Mauritius, as outlined in the Public Investment Programme (PSIP) 2025/26-2029/30, include the following:
Investments in the production of vaccines and other pharmaceuticals offer opportunities for foreign firms to collaborate on technology transfer, supply of raw materials and expertise in vaccine production processes.
The construction of the new national laboratory provides opportunities for foreign companies specializing in laboratory equipment, advanced testing technologies, and quality assurance systems to provide cutting-edge solutions. Furthermore, foreign companies can explore partnerships to support research and development, particularly in innovative pharmaceuticals and biotechnology, consistent with Mauritius's goal of increasing local manufacturing capacity and reducing reliance on imports.
Mauritius's energy sector is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the country's desire to reduce its overreliance on imported fossil fuels and transition to renewable energy sources. The government has set ambitious goals to diversify the energy mix and achieve a 60% share of renewable energy in electricity generation by 2030.
The Central Electricity Board (CEB), a Mauritian state-owned enterprise under the Ministry of Energy and Public Utilities and established under the CEB Act of 1963, manages the generation, transmission, distribution, and sale of electricity throughout the country. It typically generates approximately 40% of Mauritius's electricity through its four thermal power plants and 10 hydroelectric power plants, with the remaining 60% coming from various independent power producers (IPPs), primarily private producers from the sugar industry, using bagasse during the sugarcane harvest season from June to November and imported coal outside the harvest season from December to May. Mauritius imports coal from South Africa.
In early 2025, it became apparent that Mauritius was struggling to meet peak electricity demand during the summer months, from December to February. The government announced it was seeking both temporary and long-term solutions, such as floating power plants and other rapidly deployable generators powered by diesel, oil, and other fuels, as energy demand was expected to exceed the country's daily power generation capacity of 626 megawatts in the coming months.
The Mauritius Budget 2025-26, announced by the new government in June 2025, aims to accelerate the energy transition through investments of US$662 million (Rs 30 billion) in solar and biomass projects, with the aim of increasing the share of renewable energy in the energy mix to more than 35% by 2028. Key measures include enhanced financial support for private solar power producers, the introduction of a second battery energy storage system (BESS) to stabilise the grid, and the upgrade of the public transport fleet to electric buses. These initiatives aim to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, support international commitments to reduce CO2 emissions, and promote economic growth through green energy.
The Renewable Energy Strategic Plan (RESP) 2025-2030, developed in collaboration with the Mauritius Renewable Energy Agency (MARENA), provides a comprehensive roadmap for achieving these goals. Key initiatives include the National Biomass Development Program, a 15 MW floating photovoltaic system in Tamarin Falls, agri-solar and hybrid solar projects, and a wind farm in Plaine des Roches. The government is also collaborating with international partners such as IRENA and the World Bank to refine its renewable energy roadmap and ensure transparency in power purchase agreements (PPAs). The plan also addresses issues such as grid congestion caused by aging infrastructure.
The Renewable Energy Investment Fund (REIF) is a key component of the RESP program, designed to attract private and international investment through simplified procedures, tax incentives, and risk mitigation mechanisms. The fund will support projects by providing government guarantees, blended finance instruments, and a digital, unified system for permitting and licensing. The Mauritian government prioritizes energy security and plans to add 100 MW of capacity by January 2026 to meet growing demand from smart cities and economic zones. The RESP also integrates cross-cutting strategies to modernize the grid, expand energy storage systems, and improve energy efficiency, consistent with international commitments under the Paris Agreement and Sustainable Development Goal 7.
Mauritius is investing significantly in renewable energy infrastructure, including solar photovoltaic systems, wind power, and battery storage systems. The government has allocated $213 million (Rs 19 billion) for energy self-sufficiency projects over three years (2024-2027), creating opportunities for foreign companies specializing in renewable energy technologies and project development.
Much of Mauritius receives intense sunlight almost year-round, making solar photovoltaic (PV) energy an attractive energy supply option, with a potential annual average solar irradiance of approximately 6 kWh per square meter per day. To achieve the 60% renewable energy target by 2030, MARENA has announced a number of targets, including:
Currently, the solar energy market Mauritius is home to the French company GreenYellow, which operates several solar power plants on the island, including a 14 MWac solar power plant in Arsenal and another 16 MWac solar power plant in Solitude. Their portfolio of commissioned and planned projects includes approximately 13 solar power plants with a total capacity of over 37 MWac.
French company Qair has also been a key player in Mauritius since 2008, having built the country's first wind turbine. Qair is investing approximately Rs 6.7 billion in Mauritius to develop four STOR'SUN hybrid renewable energy projects, integrating photovoltaic panels with battery-based energy storage systems to ensure a reliable power supply to the grid. Once operational, these projects will supply 60 MW AC to the grid, increasing the share of renewable energy by 6% and supporting Mauritius' transition from coal and diesel generation. Local players include Cluny Solar Ltd, IBL Energy, Terragen, Ominicane, SeaBrew Solar Ltd, and Alteo. In April 2025, SeaBrew Solar Ltd announced plans to develop a 15 MW solar power plant in Amaury.
The waste-to-energy (WTE) sector in Mauritius offers significant opportunities for foreign companies, driven by the country's growing waste management challenges and ambitious renewable energy targets. Mauritius generates over 400,000 tonnes of municipal solid waste annually, much of which is sent to the Mare Chicose landfill, which is now nearly full. Mauritius is also moving toward a circular economy model, creating demand for technologies that recover energy and materials from waste.
The government's current waste-to-energy plan includes:
Companies currently operating in this subsector include Alteo, Omnicane, and Terragen. These local players primarily use sugarcane waste (bagasse) to generate energy.
Specific opportunities for foreign companies include the development of large-scale waste-to-energy plants, biogas and bioenergy projects, and landfill gas-to-energy systems. Foreign companies with expertise in incineration, gasification, or anaerobic digestion technologies are well positioned to participate in tenders, particularly those involving municipal solid waste and organic waste from industries such as agriculture and hospitality. Companies can also supply advanced equipment such as waste sorting systems, boilers, turbines, and emission control technologies.
Mauritius has been exploring the possibility of integrating liquefied natural gas (LNG) into its energy mix to transition to cleaner energy sources and reduce dependence on coal and fuel oil.
Mauritius's renewed efforts to integrate liquefied natural gas (LNG) into its energy mix offers significant opportunities for foreign companies specializing in LNG technology and infrastructure. While information on specific upcoming tenders is not yet available, key areas of interest for the future include:
Foreign investors and financial institutions can play a role in addressing the challenges of LNG project financing by offering structured financing solutions and public-private partnership models.
Electrification of the transport sector is a priority, with incentives such as subsidies for electric buses and tax breaks for electric vehicles being provided.
Foreign companies can explore opportunities in electric vehicle manufacturing, charging infrastructure, and related technologies. In this context, there are strong calls to modernize Mauritius's transport system by promoting electric vehicles to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and pollution in the transport sector.
Mauritius is striving to increase the share of renewable energy in its energy mix, which leads to fluctuations in electricity supply.
To reduce fluctuations caused by variable renewable energy supplies, the installation of battery energy storage systems (BESS) is necessary. The Central Electricity Board (CEB) has already installed 40 MW of battery energy storage systems (BESS), distributed across six substations.
MARENA's Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) plan, as part of the Renewable Energy Strategic Plan 2025-2030, calls for the deployment of 500 MW of BESS by 2030, according to a detailed schedule, technical standards, and integration with grid dispatch systems. The plan includes training 100 technicians by the end of 2026, providing incentives for private sector adoption, and implementing dashboards to track performance. It also emphasizes the development of business models such as leasing and public-private partnerships (PPPs), with at least two agreements signed by 2028, and support for installations led by independent power producers (IPPs) to ensure a stable supply of renewable energy. Furthermore, the strategy integrates battery energy storage systems (BESS) with the digital grid interface, aiming for 100% SSDG/MSDG connectivity and 60% grid adaptability to variable renewables by 2030, which will ensure increased grid flexibility, resilience, and energy security.