Mauritius to consolidate trading routes between Asia and Africa

After the recent state visits by the Presidents of India and Singapore, Mauritius is beginning to consolidate its position as a reliable spring board to Africa.

Denis Sassou-Nguesso, President of the mineral rich Republic of Congo-Brazzaville, on his way from Singapore is stopping over in Mauritius on a three-day visit from July 9 to 11. He will be given a red carpet welcome on Saturday.

The next day the President and his delegation will have a working session with the Prime Minister, other members of the cabinet and senior government officials. During his visit, he will have discussions on economic and trade issues, in particular the setting up of a special economic zone in Congo-Brazzaville with the assistance
of Mauritius and Singapore, collaboration on tourism and ICT, and the development of joint business ventures between Mauritius and Congo-Brazzaville.

Before his departure on Monday, the delegation will meet local businessmen. Foreign investors are showing increased interest in Mauritius as a platform to trade with African countries.

“Singapore has signed some agreements with African countries but has no treaties with any of them. Mauritius offers vast tax exemption opportunities,” said Sheikh Babu Nooruddin, treasurer of the Singapore Textile and Fashion Federation.