Are you considering launching a business in Mauritius? You’re on the right track: starting a business in Mauritius is not only easier but also more lucrative than you might think! Every year, numerous expatriate entrepreneurs choose to establish themselves abroad to kickstart new ventures. While options abound for those dreaming of an endless professional summer—Portugal, Spain, South America, Indonesia—few offer the exceptional living environment and economic dynamism found in Mauritius! Beyond its picturesque facade, Mauritius has emerged as a business hub brimming with opportunities. For entrepreneurs, living in Mauritius means reaping the benefits of a stable economy, attractive tax regime, skilled workforce, and unparalleled quality of life! Discover in this article the reasons why Mauritius stands out as THE paradise for launching a successful business!
Entrepreneurship in Mauritius: the advanges
While the advantages of starting a business in Mauritius are plentiful, we’ve chosen to highlight just five in this article. Rest assured, these should be more than sufficient to sway you! The country boasts a diversified economy, a highly dynamic labor market, modern infrastructure, a thriving entrepreneurial culture, and exponential levels of development. In short, Mauritius has emerged as a formidable economic hub in the Indian Ocean! Acting as a link between Africa and Asia—two regions with significant development potential—the country attracts numerous foreign entrepreneurs and investors annually. Consequently, business creation is a fairly common activity on the island! Thankfully, we’ve crafted a comprehensive guide to expatriating in Mauritius to streamline your relocation process!
1. Economy politics help entrepreneurship in Mauritius
The Mauritian government aims to attract investors and entrepreneurs from around the world. To achieve this, it has implemented favorable regulations, simplified administrative procedures, and attractive business creation costs. Moreover, Mauritius provides a conducive business environment, stable policies, and a dynamic free-trade economy… Not to mention a developed regulatory framework and an international arbitration center! The most promising sectors include:
- Information and communication technology,
- Financial services,
- Real estate,
- Healthcare,
- Renewable energies,
- Manufacturing,
- Cultural and creative industries,
- Agro-food industry.
2. A favorable tax regime
One of the greatest advantages of Mauritius is its highly favorable tax regime. Indeed, the local tax system has been carefully crafted to incentivize foreign investment and business establishment. In essence, becoming a tax resident in Mauritius comes with significant benefits!
- A low corporate tax rate of 15%
- A VAT rate of 15%, applicable to individuals with an annual turnover exceeding Rs 6 million (approximately 120,000 euros)
- Low employer contributions
- Double taxation avoidance agreements with numerous countries, including France
- No restrictions on capital repatriation
It’s important to note that to enjoy tax benefits in Mauritius, one must be a tax resident. This requires obtaining a permit, visa, or Mauritian nationality. Fortunately, SmartTraveller is here to assist you every step of the way! Convinced? For more detailed information on taxation in Mauritius, SmartTraveller offers you the opportunity to connect with our tax expert who can address all your inquiries! Follow the link right HERE.
3. A qualified and affordable workforce
Every business venture relies on assembling a competent team, and in Mauritius, you’ll discover a pool of skilled professionals across various fields. It’s remarkable how you can recruit exceptional talents, even on a small island in the heart of the Indian Ocean! A significant portion of Mauritians are bilingual, mastering both English and French fluently. Many have pursued their studies abroad, gaining valuable experience in countries such as France, England, Australia, Canada, and South Africa. You’ll encounter particularly compelling candidates for roles in customer relations, administration, as well as in the finance, IT, and digital sectors. Here are some additional advantages to consider:
- A progressive social security system, with rates ranging from 0 to 20% based on income (withholding tax).
- The average salary falls between 500 and 800 euros per month, as per the market analysis conducted in 2022 by the Observatoire des Compétences à Maurice (OSEM).
- Mauritius boasts prestigious higher education institutions, often in collaboration with establishments in Australia and France, offering further opportunities for skill development.
However, while Mauritius offers access to a skilled workforce, recruitment and retention may still pose challenges. For more insights, feel free to reach out to our recruitment experts at MeetYourJob! If you’re considering hiring foreign talent, Mauritius attracts a diverse range of professionals, including young graduates under VIE or VSI contracts, as well as experienced individuals for key roles. With approximately 10,000 French expatriates in its network, Mauritius offers a welcoming environment for international talent. Lastly, it’s worth noting the inherent kindness and hospitality of Mauritians, which serve as valuable assets for delivering exceptional customer service.
4. An exceptional quality of life
Absolutely, Mauritius is more than just a tiny island in the vastness of the Indian Ocean. Here’s what it offers to entrepreneurs:
- Multiple business hubs
- Cutting-edge facilities
- High-speed internet connectivity
- A plethora of coworking spaces
- Networking opportunities abound
- Startup nurturing through dedicated incubators
On a personal note, it’s a paradise with perpetual sunshine, beachside barbecues, thrilling catamaran excursions, invigorating hikes, and a vibrant social scene. Moreover, Mauritius boasts a robust educational framework, including prestigious International schools. Factor in its multicultural populace, top-notch healthcare accessibility, and remarkably affordable living expenses! Networking:
- Join the Expat community in Mauritius on Facebook
- CJD – Centre des Jeunes Dirigeants (Young Leaders Center)
- La French Tech Mauritius
- AfterWork Anba Pie
- MeetUp by MeetYourJob
- SmartTraveller Aperos
- Dreamers
- Expats in Mauritius
- French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Mauritius
Coworking Spaces:
- CocoWork Péreybère
- Workshop 17
- TheHive
- La Plage
Outings:
- Anba Pie Festival
- La Isla 2068 Festival
- Gourmet Festival
- NJoy Bar
- Blue Note Bar
- Banana Bar
- Cocoloko
- Awanam
Maurice, a small island covering an area of 2040 km² in the middle of the ocean, might seem like an unlikely place for entrepreneurial success at first glance. However, it’s quite the opposite! Entrepreneurship in Mauritius thrives for the following reasons:
- Located halfway between major economic centers such as South Africa, India, and China, Mauritius serves as an international business platform.
- Mauritius is easily accessible with direct flights to and from major cities and airport hubs. It is served by several international airlines.
Enjoy a tropical lifestyle while staying connected to the world! If you’re interested in learning more about ticket prices to Mauritius, click HERE!
Launch your business in Mauritius!
Mauritius offers an ideal blend of lifestyle, business opportunities, and work environment for entrepreneurs. So, if you’re turning your dream of launching a business in Mauritius into reality, bid farewell to the hectic urban grind and bustling city life! Embrace serene mornings, the laid-back island rhythm, the sheer delight of living, and the joys of a sun-kissed existence! With its tranquil pace of life, appealing tax incentives, skilled workforce, unparalleled quality of life, and strategically advantageous location, Mauritius truly is an El Dorado! It’s not just for entrepreneurs, but also for digital nomads, freelancers, retirees, and families… Don’t hesitate to schedule a FREE call with our expatriation experts today for more insights!
