How tourism is shaping Mauritius’ economy

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At a Glance

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• Tourism contributes 12% to Mauritius’ GDP with a 97% recovery in tourist arrivals, with Europe as the primary driver.
• Mauritius’ tourism earnings soared to MUR 88.7 billion($1.89 billion), surpassing pre-pandemic figures.
• Strong growth across Africa, Asia, and Oceania highlights Mauritius’ appeal as a diverse global destination with huge investment in infrastructure.

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Mauritius, one of Africa’s most sought-after destinations, is on track to surpass its all-time record for tourist arrivals in 2024. With tourism recovering to 94 percent of pre-pandemic levels, earnings in 2023 surged 36 percent above 2019 figures.

In fiscal 2023, the island welcomed over 1.3 million tourists, generating a record $1.89 billion in revenue—a remarkable rebound from the pandemic-induced downturn.

The nation is poised to exceed 1.4 million arrivals by year-end, solidifying its position as a premier global destination. Celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and innovative tourism strategies, Mauritius is primed for sustained growth, driving prosperity for the nation.

Tourism drives Mauritius economic growth and trends

From July 2023 to June 2024, Mauritius recorded 1.31 million tourist arrivals by air, achieving an impressive 97 percent recovery compared to the pre-pandemic figure of 1.35 million in FY 2019. Notably, arrivals in March and May 2024 exceeded 2019 levels, underscoring the sector’s strong recovery and growth trajectory.

According to its 2023 annual report, the tourist sector generated MUR 88.7 billion($1.89 billion) in earnings in 2023 representing a 13.6 percent contribution to a GDP of MUR 651.7 billion ($13.85 billion). This contribution from the tourist sector highlights its vital role in post-pandemic recovery and growth.

Regional growth trends

Europe remained Mauritius’ top tourist source in 2023, contributing 64.3 percent of arrivals (843,042 tourists), a 7 percent growth year-on-year. France led with 327,740 tourists (12.2 percent growth), making up 25 percent of total arrivals.

Africa followed, accounting for 22.7 percent of visitors (297,425 tourists), with notable increases from Madagascar (37.1 percent), Reunion Island (14 percent), and Seychelles (9.9 percent). Asia contributed 9.4 percent (123,444 tourists), driven by India’s 11.7 percent growth to 54,915 visitors.

Mauritius’ global appeal is reinforced by $500 million in infrastructure investments (2015-2020), enhancing connectivity and hospitality while boosting economic sectors nationwide.

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Tourism segments

Mauritius’ tourism offerings are diverse, catering to various interests and demographics:

• Beach Tourism: Dominating the sector, 70 percent of tourists arrive to enjoy its pristine beaches and water sports, reinforcing Mauritius’ image as a paradise island.
• Eco-Tourism: With a 20 percent growth from 2015 to 2020, eco-tourism is gaining traction, driven by travelers’ increasing preference for nature-focused and sustainable experiences.
• Cultural Tourism: The nation has seen a 15 percent rise in cultural tourism as visitors seek to explore its vibrant history, multi-ethnic traditions, and culinary delights.
• MICE Tourism: Business tourism, including Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE), has grown by 10%, reflecting Mauritius’ evolution as a hub for corporate events in the region.
  

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Opportunities:

1. Diversification: Expanding into wellness and adventure tourism can attract new market segments.
2. Sustainability: Emphasizing eco-friendly practices can preserve Mauritius’ natural beauty for future generations.
3. Regional Cooperation: Partnering with neighbouring islands could create compelling multi-destination packages.
4. Digital Marketing: Leveraging social media and online platforms can enhance global reach and target niche audiences.

The fiscal 2023 performance underscores Mauritius’ resilience and strategic commitment to revitalizing its tourism sector. Strong arrivals and robust revenue growth position the nation for full recovery and long-term expansion. By diversifying its offerings, embracing technology, and strengthening regional collaborations, Mauritius is poised to solidify its standing as a premier global destination.