Business updates

A business delegation from India and Mauritius came together at MCCI Head Office yesterday morning to explore new trade opportunities and strengthen economic ties between the two countries.

The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) brought a diverse delegation of 16 business representatives to meet with local counterparts during a two-hour networking session hosted by the Mauritius Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI).

Mr. Rajiv Wahi, CEO of Captain Agri Machinery and leader of the FICCI mission, addressed the gathering alongside MCCI Secretary General Dr. Drishtysingh Ramdenee.

The Indian delegation included companies from healthcare, construction, manufacturing, technology, and entertainment sectors.

Healthcare was well represented with executives from major Indian hospitals including Rajagiri Hospital and Lilavati Hospital, both looking at medical tourism opportunities.

The infrastructure sector brought construction companies like Renaatus Projects, which already has experience working in Mauritius and the Maldives.

Manufacturing companies included SML Films from Surat, which produces PET films, and Captain Agri Machinery, a tractor manufacturer that has exported to over 70 countries during its 31-year history.

Dr. Ramdenee pointed out that the timing for this meet could not be better as trade between the two countries has been growing steadily, particularly since the CECPA trade agreement took effect in April 2021.

Mauritius exported MUR 2.1 billion to India last year, nearly triple the MUR 745 million exported in 2015. Meanwhile, imports from India reached MUR 34.5 billion in 2024, making India our third-largest supplier.

What is particularly encouraging is how businesses are increasingly using the CECPA preferences. Exports under the special agreement jumped from just 2% of total exports to India in 2022 to 17% in 2024. This shows local companies are getting better at taking advantage of the duty concessions available under the pact.

The relationship between MCCI and FICCI goes back four decades. The two chambers first signed a cooperation agreement in 1985 and renewed it in 2023 when MCCI officials visited New Delhi.

“This long-standing partnership has created a solid foundation for our business communities to work together,” noted Dr. Ramdenee during his welcome address.

The morning session included presentations from both organisations before moving into open discussions where participants could network directly over refreshments.

Several potential collaborations emerged from the discussions, ranging from business opportunities in manufacturing to partnerships in healthcare services. Indian companies showed particular interest in using Mauritius as a base for expanding into African markets.