Promoting trade and investment in the SADC region

The Mauritius Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), as a founding member of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Business Council, reaffirmed its dedication to the SADC region during the Southern African Industrialisation Forum 2024.

Held on February 26 and 27 in Johannesburg, South Africa, this event convened key stakeholders, regional and international institutions, and private companies from across the SADC region.

Among the participants were prominent organizations such as the International Trade Centre, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, the New Partnership for Africa’s Development, and the Economic Community of West African States. Discussions during the forum centered around industrialization, trade, tourism, the pharmaceutical sector, and regional development within SADC and Africa as a whole.

Of particular focus were trade agreements and the resolution of non-tariff barriers, with participants emphasizing the importance of streamlining business processes, reducing costs, and promoting good governance and transparency. These discussions underscored the collective commitment to fostering economic growth and development throughout the SADC region.

MCCI: advocating balanced, consultative growth

MCCI takes an active part in the discussions, especially in the panel entitled « Harnessing trade agreements for economic growth in the SADC region: Navigating between challenges and opportunities ». MCCI Advocacy Manager Rooma Narrainen emphasized the importance of trade agreements for Mauritius’s economic growth, and the need to consult the private sector when negotiating free trade agreements.

Furthermore, MCCI is committed to stimulating regional economic development by promoting a business-friendly environment, encouraging innovation and supporting business growth. « MCCI plays a key role in promoting trade and investment, not only in Mauritius, but also through its global links with other chambers of commerce and industry. Our global network enables us to create synergies between companies, facilitate partnerships and explore new business opportunities », explains MCCI Secretary General Drishtysingh Ramdenee.