The Mauritian economy is well performing thanks to government initiatives such as the promotion of tourism, digital services and local products.

Mauritius’s economy

Mauritius is currently experiencing rapid economic growth, with a GDP growth rate of 8.7 % in 2022, a significant increase from the 3.4 % recorded in 2021, according to the World Bank. Leveraging its human capital, the island has diversified away from sugarcane production and focused on more lucrative sectors such as tourism, economic transformation zones, financial services and offshore business.

Mauritius is also exploring opportunities in the digital economy, capitalizing on e-commerce services and establishing cyber cities to attract new investment. Economic diversification efforts have led to a significant increase in per capita income, which rose from 1,300 USD in 1990 to 3,460 USD in 2001.

The revival of the tourism sector following the easing of travel restrictions has contributed significantly to this economic growth. In addition, Mauritius is considering exploring the potential of the oil sector as an additional pillar of its economy. Thus, Mauritius is thriving, showing dynamic and diversified economic growth.

GDP Growth: an Indicator of Success

Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth is often considered a key indicator of a country’s economic success. In the case of Mauritius, the growth rate of 8.7 % in 2022 clearly illustrates the success of its economic transformation.

Several factors explain this growth, such as the government’s monetary policy, which supports economic activity, and a lower inflation rate. In addition, the island’s economic diversification from an agricultural model to a middle-income economy with booming industrial, financial and tourism sectors has contributed greatly to this progress.

It is noteworthy that despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Mauritius has managed to maintain positive economic growth. For example, the tourism sector experienced a rebound following the lifting of travel restrictions.

Finally, Mauritius’ GDP growth reflects its role as a model for economic development in Africa, with the second highest GDP per capita on the continent. As such, Mauritius’ GDP growth clearly demonstrates the success of its economic strategy.

Natural Resources: an Asset for the Economy

Despite a disadvantage in terms of natural resources, the country could have turned this into an opportunity. Take the fishing sector, for example. The country benefits from abundant fish and seafood resources in its oceanic waters. Seafood is an important source of income and employment.

In addition, the flora is another natural asset. Roses, orchids, hibiscus and anthurium are among the main species cultivated and exported to numerous international markets, contributing to the island’s economy. Finally, given the size of its untapped Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), Mauritius aims to become a major player in the marine natural resources sector.

Tourism: a major natural resource

Tourism is a cornerstone of the Mauritian economy, contributing around 7 % of GDP in 2017. This significant asset will allow the country to welcome between 1.27 and 1.32 million visitors in 2023, marking an impressive post-pandemic recovery. This Indo-Pacific region is becoming a preferred destination for tourists, demonstrating the effectiveness of government policies.

In 2021, the economic plan for this sector generated approximately 323.84 million EUR, representing 2.6 % of GDP and 4 % of international tourism receipts in East Africa and the Indian Ocean. Despite the challenges posed by the health crisis, the island has maintained its tourist appeal, ranking 24th in the world in terms of visitor arrivals.

The Mauritian government has implemented measures to stimulate tourism recovery, emphasizing the promotion and diversification of the blue economy. Ecotourism, for example, is flourishing, providing a new source of income while respecting the local environment.

This strategy is bearing fruit, with a remarkable increase in tourist arrivals in 2023, with a total of 305,197 visitors in the first quarter. Undoubtedly, tourism as a natural resource plays a crucial role in the economic success of Mauritius.

Influence of Geographic Location on the Economy

Mauritius’ geographical location in the heart of the Indian Ocean has had a significant impact on its economy. Its strategic location between Asia and Africa gives it a competitive advantage in international trade, attracting significant investment and a skilled workforce. As a key passage on the Silk Road, it facilitates trade and attracts foreign direct investment (FDI).

This geographical location has also favored the development of a tourism-oriented economy. Known for its paradisiacal beaches and tropical climate, the island attracts numerous international visitors each year, generating significant revenues and boosting related sectors such as hospitality and transportation.

In addition, the island maintains strong ties with several countries such as Europe, China and India, which are its main economic partners. These bilateral relations have led to the establishment of numerous trade agreements, which have helped the island’s economic expansion.

Finally, the island’s geographical location, coupled with its natural resources, offers potential for the development of a blue economy. This includes the exploitation of marine resources for fishing, as well as the opportunity to explore promising sectors such as marine renewable energy.

Challenges facing the Mauritian economy

Despite sustained economic growth, Mauritius faces several challenges. The first is the transition to a knowledge-based economy, which requires a profound adaptation of skills and infrastructure. In addition, the island is grappling with the consequences of climate change, which is affecting the tourism sector and the exploitation of natural resources.

In this context, Mauritius is committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions and developing green energy. Another challenge is to absorb technologies and increase productivity in the manufacturing sector. Finally, the COVID-19 crisis has left its mark, despite a stronger-than-expected economic recovery in 2022.

Mauritius: Upper Middle Income Country

Mauritius is classified as an upper middle income country, reflecting its economic transformation since independence in 1968. From an economy initially based on agriculture, especially sugar production, it has become a diversified and more industrialized economy.

In recent decades, it has experienced steady economic growth, although at relatively modest rates (an average of 3.8 % between 2015 and 2019). However, despite the crisis caused by COVID-19, Mauritius has managed to maintain a dynamic economy that is particularly outstanding compared to other sub-Saharan African economies.

Its 30th place on the 2022 Index of Economic Freedom testifies to significant progress. Compared to other African countries, Mauritius ranks ahead of 47 other nations, with an overall score above the regional and global averages.

Average Salary in Mauritius

The average salary in Mauritius varies depending on several factors, such as sector and level of education. In 2023, the average salary is estimated to be around 505.09 EUR per month, approximately 23,700 MUR. It is also important to note that the legal minimum wage is 9,000 RS per month, approximately 200 EUR. Skilled workers can earn up to 40,000 RS per month, about 880 EUR.

Finally, professionals such as doctors, lawyers and those in the private sector typically have higher salaries depending on their experience and position. For example, the average salary for an engineer is 65,000 MUR per month, approximately 1,430 EUR, which provides a purchasing power higher than the African average.