Cooperative Sector: New Scheme to boost to local food production

In a bid to strengthen local food production, agro-processing, manufacturing and value-added production activities, the Ministry of Industry, SMEs and Cooperatives has launched the Boost to Local Production Scheme. This initiative will allow eligible cooperative societies to benefit from a grant of Rs 300,000 during financial year 2026-2027.

The initiative, unveiled on 9 July 2026 by the Minister of Industry, SMEs and Cooperatives, Mr Aadil Ameer Meea, during the opening of a workshop on the Strategic Plan for the Cooperative Sector, seeks to enhance the productivity, resilience and competitiveness of the cooperative sector while supporting the country's drive towards greater self-sufficiency in local production.

Under the Scheme, cooperative societies may obtain financial assistance for the acquisition of equipment and machinery to expand agricultural production, agro-processing, manufacturing and other local production initiatives. Eligible societies are invited to submit applications as per the prescribed guidelines, with detailed information, accompanied with the application form and supporting documents, available on the website of the Cooperatives Division.

With a view to maximise participation, the Cooperatives Division will conduct sensitisation campaigns at the Cooperative Business Centres in Port Louis, St Pierre, Henrietta, Rose Belle and Rivière du Rempart. These awareness sessions will provide eligible cooperative societies with guidance on the Scheme and encourage them to apply for grant assistance.

The Ministry is calling on all eligible cooperative societies with viable local production projects to take advantage of the Scheme to boost local production, promote value addition and contribute to the sustainable development of the cooperative sector.

The positive impact of the initiative is noticeable through the experience acquired by S.E.L.A Women Entrepreneur Cooperative Society Limited, one of the beneficiaries under the 2025/2026 edition of the Scheme. Based at La Chaux, Mahébourg, the cooperative, comprising five women entrepreneurs, received a grant of Rs 138,000 to acquire equipment supporting its organic farming, beekeeping and medicinal plant cultivation activities at the Ferney Agrihub.

The financial assistance has enabled the cooperative to improve farming operations, increase productivity, cultivate larger areas of land and enhance the quality and consistency of its produce. Reduced production costs and increased output have also strengthened the livelihoods of members, helping them meet household expenses, healthcare and education costs while improving their overall quality of life.

The grant has further empowered the women entrepreneurs by boosting their business capacities and encouraging them to diversify their activities. Among their latest initiatives is the production of organic compost from locally available algae (seaweed) and other natural materials, creating an additional income stream while promoting environmentally sustainable farming practices.

Beyond its economic benefits, the cooperative has become a model of sustainable and climate-friendly agriculture by promoting organic cultivation methods, conserving natural resources and reinforcing the cooperative spirit through teamwork, leadership and shared decision-making. Its success illustrates how targeted government support can enhance local production, empower women entrepreneurs and contribute to the country's socio-economic development.

14 August 2026

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Topics: Cooperatives