Business updates

The ADR Symposium 2024 was held at the Labourdonnais Waterfront Hotel, drawing a diverse audience of industry leaders, legal experts, and representatives of private and public sector organisations today Thursday 8 February 2024.

Organised by the Mauritius Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), with the support of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) and with the Mediation and Arbitration Center of Mauritius (MARC) in the forefront, the symposium aimed to enhance efficiency and competitiveness in resolving disputes within the region's financial landscape.

Mrs. Namita Jagarnath Hardowar, President of the MCCI and MARC, stressed ADR's importance in reinforcing Mauritius' status as a Regional Hub of Excellence for ADR. She noted, "This symposium marks a crucial juncture for Mauritius as we seek to play a larger role in ADR regionally, aligning with our economic aspirations to expand our International Financial Centre (IFC) and establish Mauritius as a hub for ADR excellence."

The guest of honour, Honourable Mahen Kumar Seeruttun, Minister of Financial Services and Good Governance, emphasised ADR's transformative potential in bolstering investor confidence and positioning Mauritius as a premier investment gateway to Africa. He stated, "

"Investors need certainty, stability and predictability. This is the reason for which when there is a clear process for ADR mechanism, investors feel comforted to use the International Financial Centre."

The Secretary General of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) acknowledged the significant progress made through the Indian Ocean Rim Association Dispute Resolution Centre Project.  "The IORA Dispute Resolution Centre Project stands as a testament to our commitment to collaboration, peace, and prosperity. By strengthening our dispute resolution mechanisms, we fortify the foundations of our shared vision for the Indian Ocean region", he stated.

Me Alexis Merle, Registrar of MARC, highlighted the collaborative efforts between the MCCI and IORA in fostering understanding and cooperation in ADR. "The partnership between the MCCI and IORA underscores the importance of collaboration in advancing ADR mechanisms and promoting regional cooperation”, he remarked.

The ADR Symposium 2024 reflects Mauritius' commitment to fostering a conducive environment for dispute resolution and investment facilitation. With insightful discussions and strategic collaborations, the Symposium aims to position Mauritius as a hub for international arbitration and mediation, strengthening its role as a leading financial services destination in the Indian Ocean Region and beyond.

Prior to the ADR, the MCCI and MARC management had the opportunity to meet the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade and the Attorney General, Honourable Maneesh Gobin. Click here to read more. 

Caption

From Left to Right: Mrs Sarada Moothoosamy, Head of Finance and Management, MCCI, Mr Charles Harel, Vice-President, MCCI, His Excellency Dr Salman Farisi, Secretary General of the IORA, Mrs Namita Jagarnath Hardowar, President of the MCCI, the Honourable Mahen Kumar Seeruttun, Minister of Financial Services and Good Governance, Dr Drishtysingh Ramdenee, Secretary General, MCCI and Mrs Rooma Narrainen, Head of Advocacy, MCCI.