Port Louis: PonteSud – News Desk
The Economic Development Board hosted a high-profile delegation from Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry during an interactive session themed ‘Deepening Economic Ties’.
The high-level delegation is led by the H.E. Abdallah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI). The delegation also comprised eminent dignitaries, namely H.E. Sheikh Majid Faisal Khalid Al Qasimi, First Vice Chairman of the SCCI, H.E. Ziyad Mohmoud Khairalla Alhaji, Honorary Secretary & Board Member of SCCI, H.E. Mohamed Ali Marzook Bin Kamil, Board Member of SCCI, H.E. Dr. Fatema Khalifa Al Muqarrab, Director of International Relations, SCCI, Dr. Lina Al Samkari, Founder of Al Hanan, Ms. Mai Sultan Bin Haddah, Head of International Cooperation Section, SCCI.
The interactive session marks an important milestone in reinforcing economic bridges between Mauritius and Sharjah in the wake of the recent entry into force of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between Mauritius and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The Agreement is set to deepen trade and investment ties, accelerate growth in key industries, strengthen supply chains, and streamline market access for businesses in Mauritius and the UAE.
The business gathering brought together participants from the Mauritian business community spanning diverse sectors such as financial services, hospitality, property, healthcare and the manufacturing industry.
In his keynote address, His Excellency, Abdallah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman, Sharjah Chamber of Commerce & Industry, highlighted that Mauritius is the first African Nation to sign a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement with the United Arab Emirates.
The agreement will play an instrumental role in bolstering trade and investment between both countries. He further added that Sharjah aims to accelerate growth in key industries and anticipates prospective collaboration with Mauritius in key sectors namely, manufacturing, healthcare, port operations, tourism, education, and renewable energy.
Delivering the welcome address, the CEO of EDB, Mr. Mahen Abhimanu Kundasamy highlighted that this event signifies the dawn of a promising new chapter in the relationship between Sharjah and Mauritius. It represents the weaving together of two vibrant economic tapestries – that of the Emirate of Sharjah, a beacon of culture, industry, and innovation in the Gulf, and that of Mauritius, a premier international financial center and gateway to Africa.
He also added that this collaboration was initiated last year with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Economic Development Board of Mauritius and the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
The CEO emphasized the excellent bilateral relationship between UAE and Mauritius underlining that a Double Tax Avoidance Agreement (DTAA – 2006) as well as an Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (IPPA – 2015) are into force. This strategic partnership has led to over USD 19.5 billion in investment inflows from the United Arab Emirates being channeled through Mauritius.
The opening ceremony also saw the insightful presentation on ‘Business and Investment Opportunities in Sharjah’ by Her Excellency Dr. Fatema Khalifa Al Muqarrab, Director of International Relations Department Sharjah Chamber of Commerce & Industry.
Mr. Sachin Mohabeer, DCEO of EDB made a presentation on Innovative Mauritius. He emphasized the strategy of Mauritius on innovation is geared towards three pillars – the 3 I’s, namely Innovation, Investment and Infusion. The comprehensive presentation showcased the well-diversified Mauritian economy and sectors with strong potential for collaboration with Sharjah.
In his address, Mr. Kevin Ramkaloan, Chief Executive Officer, Business Mauritius underlined the importance of public-private sector partnership and the role of Business Mauritius in actively engaging in policy dialogues with the government.
Mr. Ramkaloan also expressed the willingness to foster direct linkages between Mauritian businesses and their Sharjah counterparts, for mutually beneficial opportunities for expansion into the UAE and broader GCC region, and the African continent.
On the other hand, Mr. Devesh Dukhira, Chief Executive Officer of the Mauritius Sugar Syndicate provided a comprehensive overview of the Mauritius Cane cluster and showcased the wide range of Special Sugars, spread across 22 varieties.
He also expressed the potential for exports in Gulf Countries given Mauritius adherence to international norms and the MSS has been actively pursuing sustainable projects with low carbon footprint.
The Economic Development Board has prepared a comprehensive programme for the official visit of the delegation from 30th June to 3rd July and organized a series of well-curated courtesy calls and site visits to ensure a seamless and impactful experience.
