The balance of trade is on a downhill trend, as the cost of imports exceeds the proceeds of the exports. “In order to reverse this trend and improve the overall wealth of the country, it is vital that we stimulate export performance”, the chief operating officer of Enteprise Mauritius, Lance Wickman, stated.

Henceforth, Enterprise Mauritius will go beyond the basic task of creating market awareness for individual companies. The agency has committed itself to gather knowledge and understanding of markets and share this with local businesses. Thirdly, Enterprise Mauri- tius will build the internal capability and capacity of Mauritian businesses to ensure they can meet the demands of international trading.

Amédée Darga, addressing the entrepreneurs, pointed out that “Enterprise Mauritius will fully support the local companies so that they can develop the required competitiveness, make the right choice in the product to be sold and which market to target”.

Three activities have been scheduled in the forthcoming months: a Light Engineering Meet in February 2006, in which 120 companies of the Southern African Development Community will participate; a Tourist Shopping Fair for locals to expose quality products; and a Regional Trade Fair where 200 regional buyers would be invited. Amedée Darga has made it clear that it’s up to local companies to produce and export. It’s a big challenge. So, let’s get moving!