The 9th edition of the Africa Financial Markets Index (AFMI) 2025 reveals Mauritius’s continued strength as one of Africa’s most transparent, accessible, and open financial markets, where the jurisdiction has retained its second place, ranking among 29 African economies assessed for progress in developing robust and transparent financial systems.
The AFMI 2025, sponsored by Absa Group in partnership with the Official Monetary and Financial Institutions Forum (OMFIF) and supported by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), serves as a key benchmark for financial market development across the continent. The report places greater emphasis on emerging areas such as product diversification, ESG adoption, digital innovation, and enhanced regulatory frameworks, while offering valuable insights into market openness and transparency across Africa.
The index evaluates countries across six pillars, with Mauritius achieving top-tier positions in several categories:
• 1st in Legal Standards and Enforceability
• 2nd in Market Transparency, Tax and Regulatory Environment
• 3rd in both Market Depth and Access to Foreign Exchange
• 6th in Pension Fund Development
According to the report, the jurisdiction’s strong legal framework, investor protection measures, and transparent regulatory systems continue to position it as a trusted jurisdiction and strategic financial gateway for Africa.
“The Absa Africa Financial Markets Index 2025 once again highlights the strength of Mauritius’s financial infrastructure and its contribution to deepening capital markets across the continent,” commented the Managing Director at Absa Mauritius, Ravin Dajee. “As a Group, we remain proud to support this initiative, which promotes market transparency and fosters collaboration among policymakers, investors, and regulators. The consistency of Mauritius’s ranking reflects the progress of our ecosystem and its growing role in Africa’s financial future.”
The AFMI covers approximately 80 percent of Africa’s population and GDP while drawing on data from more than 50 institutions, including central banks, securities exchanges, and regulators.
The 2025 report highlights key trends shaping African markets, including the implementation of FX reforms, the growth of sustainable finance, and continued innovation in financial products across the continent.
