CLCS endorses Mauritius’ Continental Shelf claim in Rodrigues region

The Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf (CLCS) approved, on 30 July 2026, the Submission of the Republic of Mauritius concerning its Extended Continental Shelf in the region of Rodrigues Island.

The Submission, lodged on 06 May 2009, sought recognition of an extended continental shelf beyond 200 nautical miles in the Rodrigues region and was supported by extensive geological, geophysical and geochemical evidence. A Sub-Commission of the CLCS was established in March 2014 to examine the Submission.

In 2016, Mauritius requested a temporary pause in the examination to enable the acquisition of additional scientific data and further strengthening of the Submission. Following the completion of the technical examination, a Mauritian delegation made its final presentation to the CLCS in February 2026.

After considering the recommendations of the Sub-Commission and the explanations provided by Mauritius, the CLCS approved the Recommendations on 30 July 2026. The Recommendations recognise Mauritius’ entitlement to an extended continental shelf in the Rodrigues region, with outer limits covering approximately 147,000 square kilometres.

The decision marks a major national milestone in the administration of Mauritius’ maritime zones and is expected to have significant long-term implications for marine scientific research, ocean governance, marine spatial planning, and the exploration and sustainable use of natural resources in accordance with international law.

18 August 2026

Email: gis@govmu.org

Website: https://gis.govmu.org

Mobile App: GIS News

Topics: Continental Shelf