Bad advertising of Mauritius in India is not true

Marc Hein, head of practice of the Juristconsult Chambers law firm, strongly believes that the global business sector in Mauritius is doing well despite the negative publicity that the country has received in India. In an interview, Hein underlines that efforts should be continuously made so the country maintains a positive image approved by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

Is the global business sector vulnerable to the debt crisis in Europe and the US?

I would say yes because the Mauritian global business is involved in transborder transactions, that is investment to Asia and Africa passing through Mauritius. There is therefore less money for investments, implying a slowdown in the global business in Mauritius.

We received bad advertising in India because they believe that Mauritius is a poorly managed centre. This is not true. Due to our rigid laws, many foreigners who want to open a global business company in Mauritius.

Do you think that the demand of the Indian government to review the treaty with Mauritius will be realised?

I hope not as it will pose a problem for Mauritius. The stakeholders in India realise that this is a big problem for them.

Nearly half of all investments going to India pass through Mauritius.

How do you assess the current performance of the global business sector in Mauritius?

The global business sector is improving. Ten years ago, there were some 30 management companies but now there are 136. We are also happy that Clairette Ah Hen is at the head of the Financial Services Commission. It was important to have a CEO in the FSC.

Mauritius is no longer on the black list of the OECD’s tax havens. Do you believe that efforts are being made to keep the country out of the list?

This is a permanent task. The OECD always has new requests regarding offshore activities. All information requested is always given. It is a never ending job.

Do you think Mauritius offers services that are sought by investors?

We can certainly improve our range of services. We should continuously look for new products as we are competing with around 20 countries.