GAUGING THE FULL POTENTIAL OF TRADE AGREEMENTS with Mr. Sunil Boodhoo, Director of the International Trade Division at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

As we navigate the second COVID – 19 wave and its associated impact, we remain optimistic as we soldier on to a better future. Our island’s unique geographic location positions it as a natural gateway between Asia and Africa and a logical extension, promoting investments into Africa forms one of the key focus areas of the MIFC. With the coming into effect of the 2 highly awaited trade agreements– the Mauritius-China Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and the Mauritius-India Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA), which are effective since 1st January 2021 and 1st April 2021 respectively, global business transactions and international trade flows through the island are expected to increase exponentially. Add the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) to the mix and Mauritius is propelled further to the centre of regional economic activity. To explore the full potential of the trade agreements, our Chief Development and Commercial Officer, Kevin Bessoondyal, sat down with Sunil Boodhoo, Director of the International Trade Division at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for an in – depth interview