<B>How would you assess the popular fair that the MEPZA organised during the weekend? </B>

The EPZ (Export Processing Zone) fair met with a tremendous success. Over 30,000 people visited it. First, members of the public were able to make good bargains as they could buy EPZ products at very low prices. The gathering was a unique opportunity to both local and expatriate workers of the free zone to meet in a spirit of joy. We are happy that workers turned up in great numbers at a time when the industry is facing a lot of troubles. Recognition certificates are being awarded to some 2,000 most loyal employees of the industry. Certificates were symbolically handed over to around 40 workers on Sunday at Domaine Les Pailles. Most deserving people will be given prizes both as a form of acknowledgment and as a motivator for further commitment to the sector.

<B>How tough a job is it to keep the morale of the industry high during times of crisis? </B>

The free zone, especially the textile and garments manufacturing are sailing in rough waters. The companies are facing quite a few acute problems. The MEPZA fully appreciates those difficulties but we are busy finding ways to cope with them and to come up with new solutions. Our members are putting a lot of resources into marketing efforts so as to develop new markets and also to further expand existing ones. We are soon having Miatex, a buyers-sellers meeting, in London. The event which will be held with the collaboration of the Mauritius Industrial Development Authority will give our members a good insight into potential new niches and new trends in existing markets. Our members are also investing a lot in new machinery. They are very keen to use advanced technologies to develop new products and to bring new materials into their manufacturing process. EPZ entrepreneurs also want to achieve higher productivity levels and lower production costs through the increasing use of technology. A more productive workforce will definitely make our exports more competitive in international markets. We think that the new training strategy for EPZ employees will also help raise overall skills and productivity levels of the industry’s workforce.

<B> What are your plans for promoting the non-textile EPZ? </B>

The MEPZA is reflecting a lot on segments that are off the textile mainstream. We have set up a committee to look more thoroughly into this area. We want to avoid as far as we can the problems that have plagued the apparel sector. Obviously, we cannot have a hold on external factors. But we think there is still a lot we can do to improve things on the local front.

Manufacturers, unions and government will have to work together to find ways to ensure a better future for the entire EPZ.