China Woos Africa Via Mauritius

The aim of this visit is to establish contacts and create a working environment with Mauritian and African groups. BDO Mauritius held a press conference on Monday at DCDM building, Port Louis. Kathleen Liu, director of BDO China and Yacoob Ramtoola, director of BDO Mauritius were present.

“We are planning to work together by using Mauritius as a platform to channel investments from China to Africa,” said Yacoob. He pointed out that BDO in China is among the top accounting and professional firms employing more than 6,000 people with 131 partners. He added that the company has taken a good initiative by working in collaboration with the local BDO, as Chinese investors will benefit from tax incentives.Liu, for her part, defined Mauritius as the gateway to the mass market. “The island sits at the crossroads between China and Africa,” she said, stating this as the reason why they are using Mauritius as a platform to invest in Africa.

She added that Mauritius is a stable and growing economy and can be a brilliant player on the international market.

She mentioned the advantages of working with African countries including Mauritius.

“African culture and attitudes are easier and more comfortable compared to European countries,” she said. Moreover, Africa’s tax regime and regulation policies have proved to be beneficial. She is expecting African governments to provide more incentives and promotions.

She added that the main problem was the language barrier. The investment opportunities were also put forward. Liu said that they are planning to invest in the tourism, hospitality, construction and financial services sectors.