Mauritius exports in Jan-Feb up to Rs6.1bn

The island’s January to February exports rose by 17.2% compared with the same period a year earlier to Rs6.16 billion ($222 million).

France was the main buyer during that period with a 32.6% increase in exports followed by Britain with 9.8% and the United States at 9.5%. Minister of Industry Showkutally Soodhun said last month total exports will increase to Rs50 billion in 2013 from Rs40 billion this year.

He said a three-year plan which included an injection of Rs140 million this year is meant to help exporters consolidate traditional markets and diversify.

Textile groups dominate the export businesses, accounting for 65% of the sector’s total sales, supplying major European high street retailers including Next and Marks & Spencer in Britain, and Spain’s Zara.