Mauritius Aims to Fully Capitalize on E-commerce Opportunities

A two-day national workshop on E-commerce, jointly organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration, and International Trade and the World Trade Organization (WTO), opened on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at the Caudan Arts Centre in Port Louis. The workshop aims to enhance Mauritius's capacity to develop national and regional e-commerce policies, improve engagement in international negotiations, and assess the impact of global digital trade frameworks.

Approximately 40 participants from government institutions, regulatory bodies, and the private sector are in attendance. The goal is to provide a better understanding of the key issues related to e-commerce being examined at the WTO, particularly those associated with the E-commerce Work Programme and the Joint Declaration on E-Commerce.

This initiative is part of broader efforts by the government to prepare Mauritius for the rapidly evolving digital economy and ensure that the country can fully benefit from e-commerce opportunities for inclusive and sustainable growth.

In his speech, Rajen Narsinghen, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration, and International Trade, emphasized that strengthening the capacities of a small island nation like Mauritius is essential for economic growth and global competitiveness. He referenced the long-standing partnership between Mauritius and the WTO, as well as the ongoing support provided to developing countries through training and technical assistance to enhance Mauritius's trade and digital frameworks.

In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Minister explained how it has prompted many businesses and consumers to move online, resulting in a lasting shift in habits. "This change has fostered the rise of local E-commerce platforms and encouraged small and medium-sized enterprises to utilize social media and digital payment systems to reach customers more effectively," he stated.

Digital Trade Policy Officer, Ms. Stefania Gallo, highlighted that digital technologies enable businesses, particularly those in developing countries, to more easily and affordably access new markets and integrate into the global economy. In this context, she noted that challenges such as limited digital infrastructure, high costs, low digital literacy, and the need for clear regulatory frameworks must be addressed.

Ms. Stefania Gallo also commended Mauritius for its active role in WTO discussions on E-commerce and encouraged participants to leverage the workshop to enhance their knowledge and capacity to capitalize on the opportunities presented by digital trade.