Customs Seminar: Mauritius Strengthens Regional Cooperation and Institutional Capacities
The Mauritius Revenue Authority, in partnership with the IMF’s AFRITAC South, is hosting a regional seminar focused on developing a risk-based customs compliance plan. This initiative aims to enhance capacity building, regional cooperation, and improve the efficiency of customs administrations.
From February 2 to 6, 2026, the Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA) is organizing a regional seminar titled "Developing a Risk-Based Compliance Plan for Customs" at the Integrated Customs Clearance Centre (ICCC) in Plaine-Magnien, gathering customs officers from developing and emerging economies.
The seminar aims to strengthen institutional capacities through the adoption of an Integrated Risk Management (IRM) approach. In the context of increasing globalization, complex supply chains, and multiple cross-border threats, the goal is to equip customs administrations with tools that balance control, trade facilitation, and voluntary compliance.
During the launch ceremony, Junior Minister of Finance Dhaneshwar Damry reiterated the government's vision to make 2026 "the year of the economy." He emphasized that job creation and capacity building are essential pillars for sustainable and inclusive growth.
Enhanced Risk Management
In this regard, he reaffirmed the authorities' commitment to strengthening customs administration and improving risk management practices. "Building capacities remains crucial for promoting inclusive economic development, both nationally and across the African continent," Minister Damry emphasized. He also highlighted Mauritius's active involvement with international institutions to share expertise and implement training programs benefiting regional institutions and individuals.
According to him, the country is gradually consolidating its international stature and positioning itself as a hub for knowledge sharing and institutional development.
Discussing budgetary issues, Dhaneshwar Damry mentioned that while fiscal consolidation remains a priority, the government continues to pursue transformation projects aimed at reshaping the country's economic and social landscape. On the regulatory front, he stressed the importance of a rigorous risk-based approach, reaffirming Mauritius's firm commitment to meeting the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) evaluation requirements. "There will be no compromise on international standards of transparency, governance, and financial integrity," he stated.
Strengthening Resilience
Australia's High Commissioner to Mauritius, Kate Chamley, emphasized the importance of mobilizing domestic revenue to strengthen economic resilience. She highlighted the key role of skill development and peer learning in sustainably strengthening institutions, including customs administrations.
Sukhwinder Singh, director of the Africa Training Institute and AFRITAC South at the IMF, commended Mauritius's ongoing support for IMF training initiatives in sub-Saharan Africa. He described the country as a key partner in promoting effective and sustainable reforms, particularly through the development of practical, risk-based customs compliance plans.
356,645 Customs Declarations Processed in Mauritius in 2025
MRA Director General Rohit Ramnawaz underscored the central role of risk-based compliance plans in enhancing operational efficiency and optimizing control resources. He reported that in 2025, 356,645 customs declarations were processed in Mauritius, of which 46,461 underwent scanning or physical examination. That year, the country welcomed 1.4 million tourists, each representing a potential risk profile necessitating proportionate and targeted intervention. He also highlighted that over one ton of dangerous drugs, with an estimated market value exceeding Rs 8.4 billion, was intercepted in 2025.