International Financial Services Sector

From a near absolute dependency on cane sugar, Mauritius has successfully diversified its economy through the development of an efficient Export Processing Zone and the creation of a truly world class product in the Tourism Industry.

The development of an International Services sector with a Freeport and an International Financial Services Centre was a natural addition to an already performant economy. In this context, the Mauritius Offshore Business Activities Act (MOBAA) and the Mauritius Freeport Act were enacted in 1992.

Besides an attractive fiscal package and the proper legal framework to ensure an impeccable reputation for the International Services Sector, Mauritius offers a number of advantages. These include an increasing network of Double Taxation Agreements (DTA), a pool of qualified accountants, lawyers and other professionals, low operating costs and commitment for fast responses.

As an active member of a number of regional and international organisations (SADC, Indian Ocean Rim, COMESA, ACP, Commonwealth, Association of French Speaking countries, etc.), Mauritius is a natural platform for international businesses.

With its proximity, Mauritius stands to benefit substantially as an investment platform into the New South Africa and other sub-Saharan countries. Mauritius has very strong cultural and diplomatic ties with India. As a result, Mauritius is known to have an exceptionally favorable DTA with India.

After seven years, there are more than 10,000 entities operating in the International Services Centre with activities in Banking, Insurance, International Trading, Aircraft and Ship Management, Corporate Trust Services, etc. Major fund management companies have offices in Mauritius to fully make use of the inherent advantages of this jurisdiction.

No other International Services Centre has achieved so much in such a short time.