Gaining in-depth insights into trade agreements

The next phase involves 15 SMEs selected for the program, organized by the Mauritius Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) and the UNDP. The three-day workshops aim to provide a deeper understanding of the African market and export mechanisms.

Following the initial phase of the program, which focused on tailored diagnostics and coaching, participants are now engaged in intensive training sessions. These workshops cover crucial topics such as export strategy, global marketing, and financial risk management. On Monday, October 14, 2024, the official launch of this second phase took place in Port Louis, with a workshop titled « Learning to Understand Trade Agreements ».

MCCI experts provided representatives from the 15 Mauritian SMEs, along with three others from Seychelles, with the opportunity to gain in-depth insights into trade agreements. According to Patrice Marie, Vice President of MCCI, small and medium-sized enterprises account for approximately 40 % of the country’s GDP and 55 % of employment. SMEs play a vital role in Mauritius’s economy, with around 120,000 active in various sectors, giving them significant potential to expand into international markets.

Mauritius’s rapid growth in service exports to the African continent is evident in sectors such as banking, healthcare, commerce, and more. The upcoming workshops, scheduled until October 16, will focus on export strategy, international marketing, and financial risk management.