Mauritian Exports Decline

In 2025, Mauritian exports declined, exacerbating the country’s trade deficit. Even though GDP grew by 3.2%, the economy remains fragile due to an unbalanced foreign trade, according to data available at the end of 2025 from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

Throughout the year, the trade balance recorded worrying figures. In June, the deficit reached Rs 19.1 billion (USD 424.4 million), with imports totaling Rs 28.4 billion compared to only Rs 9.3 billion in exports. In October, this situation worsened to Rs 22.1 billion, its highest level in ten months. A slight improvement was observed in July, with the deficit reduced to Rs 14.5 billion.

The situation is mainly explained by the heavy reliance on imports, particularly for food, fuel, and machinery. Exports, meanwhile, are struggling to regain momentum. Traditional sectors—textiles, sugar, and seafood—remain affected by international competition and production costs. Tourism and digital services partially compensate, but their contribution remains limited.

Despite this imbalance, the government is managing to strengthen its tax revenues. Product taxes brought in Rs 105.7 billion, an increase of approximately 12% compared to 2024. This growth reflects the strength of domestic consumption and the efficiency of the tax system, but also underscores the dependence on imports.

Two points are of particular concern: the public debt, estimated at 89.3% of GDP, and the decline in private investment, which is hindering economic recovery. Experts recommend diversifying exports, improving local competitiveness, and better managing deficits to consolidate growth.