Mauritius’ bilateral relations with China dates from the former’s independence in 1968. Historical links between the two countries emanate from the composition of the Mauritian nation consisting of the Chinese origin immigrants. China is reaching out to the world and is opening the global economy with innovative concepts such as the Belt and Road initiative and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road. China is a reliant partner for the development of the African continent, and as such Mauritius will continue to benefit by positioning itself as a bridge to route investment in Africa.
Over the last decade or so, the relationship between China and Mauritius has deepened with various projects being implemented in all sectors: Jinfei Smart City project, Confucius Institute established at the University of Mauritius, growing number of tourists from China in Mauritius, Bank of China has established a branch on the island, while tech giant Huawei has set up a headquarters and CCTV has increased its presence. The superpower has also engaged heavily economically in Mauritius: Yihai Investment Ltd has secured a $315 million contract for a 200,000 square metre real estate development; China financed the Bagatelle Dam and provided loans and support in the construction of a new airport terminal, roads and hospitals. China is also Mauritius’ main trading partner, accounting for 18% of imports, ahead of India’s 16.5% and South Africa and France’s 8%.
Mauritius and China strengthen their bilateral relations with the signature of a Free Trade Agreement in 2019 covering trade in goods and services, as well as investment and economic cooperation. The Free Trade Agreement also covers more than 40 service sectors, including financial services, professional services, education, ICT and telecommunications, tourism, construction, and health services. Mauritius citizens will also be able to establish businesses in China as wholly owned entities and through partnerships with Chinese people. According to official sources, the agreement will provide Mauritius with duty-free access to about 8,227 products (96% of Chinese tariff lines). China’s exports to Mauritius – which include iron and steel products, textiles, and light industrial products – are will benefit from the Free Trade Agreement.