Agro-Industry: Budget priorities to strengthen food security and economic resilience

Key priorities for the forthcoming national budget, including food security, agricultural modernisation, and the sustainable development of the blue economy, were outlined by the Minister of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries, Dr Arvin Boolell, during a press conference held today in Port Louis against the backdrop of global economic challenges. The Junior Minister, Mr Gilles Fabrice David, as well as chairpersons and representatives of parastatal bodies operating under the aegis of the Ministry were present.

Dr Boolell emphasised that Government will come up with bold and forward-looking budget measures aimed at securing long-term gains for the country, reinforcing food security, strengthening economic resilience and creating new opportunities in the agro-industrial and blue economy sectors.

Government, he mentioned, is also fast-tracking renewable energy initiatives, with a target of generating 20 percent of energy from biomass as part of the transition from coal. New forestry and wetland legislation are being prepared to strengthen environmental protection.

Dr Boolell reaffirmed Mauritius’ commitment to unlocking the potential of its Exclusive Economic Zone, including the Saya de Malha Bank, while pursuing the modernisation of port infrastructure.

Addressing labour shortages, he announced the recruitment of foreign workers from Nepal, India and Madagascar adding that 300 workers are expected in the coming days.

Referring to external economic pressures, including disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and the imposition of a 15 percent United States tariff, Dr Boolell stressed the need to safeguard Mauritius’ interests as a Small Island Developing State.

Minister Boolell also expressed concern over the United Kingdom’s decision to grant duty-free tuna access to all exporting countries, indicating that the measure could undermine Mauritius’ longstanding competitive advantage and adversely affect the local tuna industry, which generates nearly Rs 14 billion annually.

15 June 2026

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Topics: Agriculture, Fisheries, Ocean Economy