Blue Biotechnology: A Regional Roadmap in Development in the Indian Ocean

Cap Business Indian Ocean, in collaboration with the Mauritius Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), held an opening ceremony on Wednesday, January 28, for a regional roundtable titled "Regional Action Plan for the Development of Blue Biotechnology in the Indian Ocean." This initiative marks a significant step in structuring a sector with high potential for the island economies in the region.

This roundtable is part of a regional study led by Cap Business Indian Ocean, aimed at creating a strategic roadmap to boost and regulate the development of blue biotechnology.

The ambition is to establish a coherent framework that aligns with both the local priorities of Indian Ocean states and international commitments regarding sustainable blue economy.

The opening ceremony featured Arvin Boolell, Minister of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy, and Fisheries. He emphasized the sustainable valorization of marine resources, scientific innovation, and the role of blue biotechnology in creating added value. "There needs to be a sharing of ideas and resources for discussions to become concrete. The convergence among countries in the region is crucial," he asserted.

The event brought together key stakeholders from the public and private sectors, as well as representatives from the research community and civil society.

The discussions aim to identify opportunities, challenges, and necessary levers to promote enhanced regional cooperation and position the Indian Ocean as an emerging hub for blue biotechnology.