Economic growth of Mauritius may slow down between 0.1% to 0.3%, stated the Finance Minister

Prior to the press conference, the Minister chaired a meeting with stakeholders of public and private bodies to discuss on the economic impacts of the coronavirus on Mauritius.

The meeting took stock of the measures to contain the risks of the virus from reaching the Mauritian territory and the ways to minimise the impact on the economy.

Minister Padayachy indicated that the tourism industry remains among the essential sectors, other than trade, manufacturing and supply chain, that should be given due attention in the outbreak of the novel coronavirus in mainland China and other affected countries. He spoke of the need to market Mauritius as a safe destination for tourists while adding that the country is geared towards promoting regional tourism.

On this score, he stated that the prices of flights to Reunion Island have decreased and there is also an increase in the number of flights to the island so as to attract more tourists of the region to Mauritius. In addition, the Minister highlighted that the hotel sector in Mauritius is lowering their rates.

The need, he said, is to render local products more attractive for exportation so as to maximise on the opportunities for the economic growth of the country.

Minister Padaychy stated that the Ministry is acting proactively to monitor the economic impact of the coronavirus and will ensure that meetings will be held regularly with stakeholders so as to communicate effectively important information to the public as the situation evolves.