The future of the textile industry in Mauritius appears uncertain. Imagination and new ideas may be the only ways of keeping local companies profitable. The decision of Aquarelle, a subsidiary of Ciel Textile that specialises in shirts, to open a second factory in Bangalore – India – seems to be a wise one. With Laguna Clothing, which should be starting production in March 2006, not only will the Mauritian firm be closer to its biggest purchasers that have all settled in India but it will also benefit from a wider choice of raw materials for its products.

With that in mind, the Mauritian firm has concluded a joint venture with an Italian fabric manufacturer, Tessitura Monti. Thanks to this association, Laguna Clothing will make high-class shirts for European and American markets. Aquarelle has already started its marketing campaign in Europe and Eric Dorchies, Aquarelle’s manager, confides, “The response was very positive. What we offer is high-class shirts at competitive prices.” Next month, it will start campaigning in the United States.

Skilled labour for quality shirts</B>