Business updates

3rd Quarter Trade Statistics – Contraction in the Exports of Garments.

 Total exports of goods for the period January to September 2017 accounted for RS 54.7 billion representing a drop of 7% when compared to the same period in 2016. Domestic exports were valued at RS 40.7 billion while re-exports amounted to RS 14.0 billion. From January to September 2017, both domestic exports and re-exports fell by 3% and 16% respectively when compared to the period January to September 2016. On the other hand, from January to September 2017, imports were valued at Rs 128 billion representing an increase of 8% when compared over the same period in 2016.

During the period January to September 2017, the European Union remained our major export destination representing 50% of market share followed by USA (11%) and South Africa (9%). Excluding textiles and clothing products, we note that processed fish and cane sugar experienced an increase in exports of 12% and 22% respectively. In contrast, exports of textiles and clothing have contracted by 10% for the period January to September 2017 with reductions in the exports of several categories of ‘garments’.

A graphical illustration of the 3rd quarter trade statistics, including main products exported and imported and the major export destinations and countries of imports can be accessed here.

All figures are based on Statistics Mauritius’ publications.