Edits & Curated by
Vishal Bhidu
In the latest Economic Development Board (EDB) Newsletter dated August, the board chairman Sanjay Bhunjun has remarked that the first six months have been characterized by resilience and forward momentum, wherein, in the wake of global uncertainties, the jurisdiction has been able to continue attracting high-value investment projects, diversify its economic base, and reinforce its reputation as a jurisdiction of trust.
He underlined that processes pertaining to project approval have been streamlined, with embedded transparency and efficiency at large, where reforms have not only enhanced institutional credibility but also reinforced investor confidence in Mauritius as a destination where governance and professionalism are paramount.
Bhunjun stated, “Our vision is clear: to deepen strategic partnerships with key economies, to facilitate high-tech and value-added investments and to ensure that Mauritius remains agile in responding to global trends. We are committed to harmonising regulatory frameworks, fostering innovation, and building collaborative relationships that extend beyond borders.”
The newsletter looked back at several initiatives such as Mauritius topping Africa in Global Investment Risk and Resilience 2026, where it was ranked 61st globally, clocking an overall score of 62.20. The island was also tagged as a low-risk destination and published by Henley & Partners, where it ranked ahead of Tanzania (62nd), Botswana (63rd), and Seychelles (79th), positioning it as the strongest performer in an increasingly complex global investment environment.
The newsletter also revisits the new DPO Regulations designed to boost investor confidence, reaffirming the belief in the need for trust as the most valuable asset for businesses and investors at a time when the global economy has become more digital. Adhering to best international practices, the jurisdiction is strengthening its data protection framework with the introduction of the Data Protection (Designation, Tasks and Position of Data Protection Officers) Regulations 2026, set to come into force on January 1, 2027.
The introduction of regulations reflects a continued commitment to international standards of transparency, accountability and responsible data management.
During the first half of the year, the EDB also launched the Business Obstacles Alert Mechanism (BOAM), designed as an online platform to support businesses in tackling operational and administrative issues in a more efficient manner.
BOAM poses as a structured channel for reporting business obstacles by enhancing business facilitation, promoting greater coordination with public authorities, and leveraging a more transparent and investor-friendly business environment.
The platform complements existing administrative procedures and does not replace the normal processes for applying for licences, permits, authorisations or other regulatory approvals.
BOAM is available to businesses operating in Mauritius that face obstacles during licensing, permitting, utility connections, regulatory clearances or other administrative processes related to their activities.
A key highlight is facilitating access to skilled talent through the introduction of a Government-to-Government (G2G) recruitment mechanism with India, where the aim is to provide businesses with a reliable, ethical and efficient pathway to recruit qualified workers.
The initiative is implemented by the EDB, in collaboration with India’s National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), to support business growth, while at the same time tackling labour shortages across key economic sectors on the island.
The new platform helps simplify and speed up the recruitment process while at the same time slashing costs by eliminating intermediaries and recruitment agents. The entire process is managed digitally through a centralised platform, rendering recruitment more efficient, transparent and predictable while ensuring that employers recruit workers with the right skills for their operations.
