Mauritius PM Warns: India Hit Hard by Trade War Tariffs, Urges Stronger Ties
Mauritius PM Warns India Faces Tough Trade Tariffs and Calls for Closer Partnership.
Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, speaking at the Mauritius-India Business Conclave in Mumbai today, warned that India is facing significant economic challenges due to punitive tariffs and escalating global trade wars. Addressing an audience organized by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and the Ministry of External Affairs, Ramgoolam emphasized the compounded risks from rising protectionism, supply chain disruptions, soaring freight costs, and climate-related shocks, stating, “We are unfortunately living in an era where predictability is becoming unpredictable.”
Ramgoolam underscored India’s role as a steadfast partner in Mauritius’ socio-economic development since its independence, noting that bilateral trade reached USD 800 million in 2024 under the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA). He highlighted Mauritius’ aim to boost exports to India from USD 50 million to USD 100 million annually by leveraging financial services, tourism, and trilateral cooperation with Africa. “Circumstances are compelling us to embrace uncertainty and manage it through strong partnership,” he said, positioning Mauritius as a gateway for Indian businesses into African markets via the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and other regional frameworks.
The Prime Minister praised milestones like the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) and CECPA, describing them as “game-changers” for business stability. He also invited Indian investment in Mauritius’ blue economy, healthcare, and renewable energy sectors, noting the island nation’s 2.3 million square kilometer maritime zone.
Union Minister Manohar Lal echoed the sentiment, calling CECPA, enacted in April 2021, a historic milestone as India’s first free trade agreement with an African nation. He emphasized the mutual trust reflected in Mauritius’ role as a top source of foreign direct investment into India and India’s position among Mauritius’ top three trade partners.
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As global economic instability persists, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening ties to navigate these challenges, with Mauritius poised to serve as a strategic bridge for India’s economic ambitions in Africa.
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