Business updates

The Mauritius Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) marked a historic milestone today Wednesday 21 May 2025, as it unveiled its 175th anniversary commemorative logo during a ceremony at the Caudan Arts Centre.

The event brought together key figures from Mauritius' business landscape, as well as senior government officials and CEOs and chairpersons of private and public bodies, to celebrate the legacy of the oldest chamber of commerce in the Southern Hemisphere.

MCCI Secretary-General Dr. Drishtysingh Ramdenee made opening remarks that framed the Chamber's evolution against the backdrop of Mauritius' economic transformation. His address highlighted how the institution has evolved from its origins in an era of sugar monoculture to navigating today's complex economic landscape.

Dr. Ramdenee spoke of the fundamental importance of convergence of ideas in an increasingly competitive global environment, emphasising that Chambers must foster collaboration to address challenges that transcend individual capacity.

Furthermore, attendees viewed a special video message from Mr. Julian Kassum, Deputy Secretary-General of the International Chamber of Commerce, underscoring the MCCI's standing in global business networks and congratulated the institution on reaching this remarkable milestone.

The defining moment of the evening came when MCCI President Mr. Charles Harel took the stage to unveil the commemorative logo designed around the concept "The Collective Voice of Economic Progress."

In his speech, Mr. Charles Harel created a powerful contrast between the Chamber's founding era—when communications took three months to cross oceans—and today's world of artificial intelligence and instant digital transactions.

He emphasised that despite these transformations, the Chamber's core mission remains constant: to be the voice, advocate, and catalyst of economic progress. Mr. Harel reminded attendees that the MCCI has served the business community even before Mauritius had an independent government or modern infrastructure, playing its role when there were no economic plans, trained workforce, or abundant resources.

A central element of Mr. Harel's speech was his presentation of four pillars that have formed the foundation of the Chamber's work throughout its history: Legacy and Innovation, Inclusion and Accessibility, Global Perspective with Local Impact, and Forward-Looking Leadership. For each pillar, he provided concrete examples of the Chamber's contributions, from standardising sugar exports in 1907 to launching Africa's first fully digital tax-free shopping app in 2022.

A panel discussion themed “Legacy meets horizon” followed the unveiling. The conversation featured seasoned members of the business community:
- Mr. Raj Makoond, Program Director at Eclosia Group, provided analysis on economic diversification strategies and industrial policy
- Mr. Daniel d'Arifat, CEO of PNL, shared insights on retail resilience and distribution challenges in a small island economy
- Mrs. Namita Jagarnath Hardowar, CSK, MCCI President (2022-2024), spoke about economic inclusivity and Mauritius' strategic position at  the crossroads of Africa and Asia
- Mr. Charansingh Dabeesing, CEO of MACCS, discussed the evolution of public-private partnerships and their impact on economic development

Dr. Ramdenee moderated the discussion through the four central themes that have defined the Chamber's work throughout its history.

A networking cocktail concluded the event, allowing for more informal exchanges among business leaders, government officials, and Chamber representatives.