GO-EXPORT Programme: Preparing cooperative societies to access international markets

The Economic Development Board (EDB), in collaboration with the National Co-operative College (NCC), will launch the GO-EXPORT Programme for Cooperatives on Monday 31 August 2026 in Ebène. Around 90 participants, mainly representatives of cooperative societies, will attend.

The new capacity-building initiative seeks to strengthen the export capabilities and competitiveness of Mauritian cooperatives and equip them with the knowledge and practical tools to better access regional and international markets. This initiative is in line with the Government Programme 2025-2029, which provides for a revamped legal framework and an innovative package of incentives to bolster the capacity and competitiveness of cooperatives, while supporting them in tapping export opportunities.

The launch ceremony will comprise a workshop and presentations focusing on several themes such as “Unlocking Export Opportunities: A New Growth Path for Cooperative Societies”, “EDB Export Support Ecosystems for SMEs”, and “Understanding Export Process, Logistics, Documentation and Trade Finance.”

The GO-EXPORT Programme will subsequently feature training sessions covering key aspects of the export journey. Cooperative societies will receive practical guidance on assessing their export readiness, identifying suitable markets, understanding trade agreements and compliance requirements, obtaining certification, export pricing, Incoterms, logistics and documentation. Particular attention will also be given to packaging and labelling to ensure that Mauritian products meet the expectations and regulatory requirements of international markets.

The programme will pave the way for cooperative societies to embrace e-commerce, digital marketing and artificial intelligence as instruments to conduct market research, identify potential customers and enhance their visibility abroad. By strengthening their knowledge of international trade and modern digital tools, cooperatives will be better positioned to diversify their markets and develop sustainable export activities.

The initiative is a follow-up of a workshop on Tapping Export Opportunities for Cooperative Societies, organised by the Cooperatives Division of the Ministry of Industry, SME and Cooperatives on 08 October 2025. The workshop brought together 21 cooperators from 20 cooperative societies with the objective of empowering cooperatives to explore export opportunities, improve their understanding of export requirements and procedures, and assessing the needs of selected cooperatives to become export-ready.

Plantation Vanille: A Model of Innovation and Sustainability

Plantation Vanille Multi-Purpose Co-operative Society Ltd illustrates the potential of cooperatives to develop value-added products and access export markets. Established in 2023 with five members, the cooperative produces around 500 kilograms of vanilla annually and has diversified into products such as vanilla powder, essence, paste and tea, all products marketed under the “Made in Moris” label.

It also produces cacao, vegetables, fruits and seedlings while adopting sustainable farming practices. Recipient of the Creativity and Innovation Award at the National Cooperative Excellence Awards 2026, the cooperative has benefited from Ministry support in training in export readiness and sustainable packaging. To support its efforts to explore international markets, Plantation Vanille obtained an Export Development Certificate in 2026.

Through the GO-EXPORT Programme, the Government’s strategy is to build on such initiatives and create greater opportunities for cooperatives to shift beyond traditional local markets. The programme is expected to contribute to the internationalisation of the cooperative sector by enhancing export readiness, encouraging innovation and value addition, and enabling Mauritian cooperatives to participate more effectively in regional and global trade.

28 August 2026

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Topics: Cooperatives