The Economic Development Board (EDB) Board met on June 27, where it has approved a set of priority reforms to support the transition towards a high-value, knowledge-based and innovation-driven economy while at the same time stymying the talent pipeline, simplifying business processes, attracting strategic investment and accelerating delivery of key national economic measures.
- Advancing Labour Market Reform and Talent Development
The Board took note of the action plan following the EDB workshop on “Addressing Skills Gaps and Labour Shortages in the Mauritian Labour Market,” held on June 12. The plan is designed to better align skills supply with demand in healthcare, ICT, manufacturing, construction, hospitality, agroindustry, AI, FinTech and digital technologies. Key priorities include industry-driven curricula, stronger TVET delivery, international talent attraction, diaspora engagement, workforce retention, improved labour market intelligence, a national workforce planning framework and the introduction of micro-credentials.
2. Fast-Tracking Technical Talent Through G-to-G Arrangements
Under the Work and Live initiative announced in Budget 2026/2027, the Board has reviewed the operational framework for the new Technical Occupation Permit. The permit will facilitate the recruitment of foreign professionals through Government-to-Government arrangements and be integrated into the National Electronic Licensing System (NELS).
3. Investment Certificate – Digital Technology and Innovation
The Board has approved the issue of two new Investment Certificates in the Digital Technology and Innovation sector, supporting companies that will establish operations in Mauritius to serve global markets, including sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East.
4. Streamlining Business Licensing
The Board took note that the EDB will work on a comprehensive business licensing exercise linked to the forthcoming Business Facilitation Bill. Drawing on NELS data and private-sector feedback, the EDB will propose legal amendments to streamline permits, licences, clearances and authorisations. The Bill, as announced in Budget 2026/2027, will introduce statutory timeframes and the Silent Agreement Principle, under which approvals will be deemed granted where authorities do not issue a decision within the prescribed deadline.
5. Strengthening Responsible Business Conduct
Following Mauritius’ adherence to the OECD Declaration on International Investment and Multinational Enterprises, the Board has approved the reconstitution and staffing of the NCP Mauritius Secretariat.
6. Enhancing Investment and Residency Schemes
The Board also noted revised criteria for investment and residency schemes as announced in the last Budget Speech, including clearer investment requirements, milestone-based evaluation for innovative start-ups, improved facilitation for technical personnel under G-to-G agreements and a new salary threshold for professionals.
7. Introducing the Strategic Golden Visa Framework
The Board took note of the operational guidelines for the Golden Visa programme. Non-citizens investing a minimum of USD 1 million in priority sectors such as FinTech, green energy, aquaculture, and approved public offerings may qualify for Permanent Residence.
8. Expanding International Investment and Trade Outreach
The Board has finalised plans for key international missions in the second half of 2026, including the Source Fashion, Africa Down Under Conference in Perth and the SIAL Exhibition to promote Mauritius food and agro-industrial exports.
9. Investment Project Portfolio Update (April 2025 – May 2026)
The Board has provided an updated review on investment projects approved between April 2025 and May 2026. During this period, 63 projects were approved, representing a total investment value of Rs 159.3 billion. In addition, 16 renewable energy projects were issued Registration Certificates, with a combined investment value of Rs 8.75 billion. This portfolio reflects the EDB’s continued ability to attract large-scale, diversified projects across hospitality, ICT, education, manufacturing, agro-industry and renewable energy
With respect to implementation, seven projects have progressed to the construction phase or are entering active implementation.
10. Driving Budget 2026/2027 Implementation
The Board took note of a 20-point roadmap to implement Budget 2026/2027 measures under the EDB’s mandate, with actions covering digital infrastructure, ease of doing business, sectoral development, and fiscal and regulatory reform.
• Digital Infrastructure – AI chatbot on NELS, National E-Diaspora Platform and Online Student Visa system.
• Ease of Doing Business – Business Facilitation Bill, streamlined event permits and Freeport Act amendments.
• Sectoral Development – Fish farming zones, barachois, Startup Accelerator Scheme and Côte d’Or AI SEZ incentives.
The EDB will work in close collaboration with public- and private-sector partners to help support the timely implementation of these measures and strengthen Mauritius’ position as a competitive, innovation-driven investment destination.
