Strategic logistics hub for the Indian Ocean
Mauritius is strengthening its position as a key logistics center in the Indian Ocean.
This was affirmed by Hambyrajen Narsinghen, Junior Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration, and International Trade, during the LOGI-CONSULT Trade and Investment Forum 2025, held in Ebène on January 21, 2025.
With 550,000 m² of designated free zones, the Mauritius Freeport boasts modern infrastructures, including customized warehouses, cold storage, processing units, and integrated offices. Authorized activities include warehousing, light assembly, shipbuilding, and ship repair. Airport and port operations are also included, with a focus on export and re-export.
According to the minister, “Mauritius offers investors attractive tax advantages, including exemption from customs duties and VAT on imported goods, a corporate tax rate of 3%, and 100% foreign ownership. These benefits facilitate access to the duty-free markets of SADC and COMESA.”
Hambyrajen Narsinghen, however, lamented the weakness of intra-African trade, which represents only 15 % of the continent’s total exchanges. He emphasized Mauritius’ strategic role as a gateway for West African countries wishing to access regional markets.
The event brought together 80 participants from various sectors such as banking, private equity, and logistics. Influential figures, including Zoumana Coulibaly (CCI Côte d’Ivoire) and Dhristy Ramdanee (CCI Mauritius), highlighted the importance of regional integration to optimize infrastructure and boost African trade.
Mauritius leverages its network of trade agreements and efficient infrastructures to attract businesses and boost exports to a global market of 5.4 billion consumers.