The Stock Exchange of Mauritius (SEM) started its operations in 1989, with only 5 companies on the official list. This institution has witnessed major developments over the past few years, with currently 40 companies on the Official Market, trading both shares and debentures.

The range of activities of the Stock Exchange has expanded and the SEMATS (SEM Automated Trading System) was launched in 2001, and constitutes a state-of-the-art trading system built on third generation technology. The SEMATS put an end to the traditional outcry method of trading that was carried out on the trading floor since the inception of the SEM.