Minister Ameer Meea urges industries to embrace digital transformation

Mauritius must accelerate the adoption of digital technologies and Artificial Intelligence (AI) across its industrial sector to enhance productivity, address labour constraints and strengthen the competitiveness of local enterprises on international markets, stated the Minister of Industry, SME and Cooperatives, Mr Aadil Ameer Meea.

He was speaking, today, at the opening of a workshop on digital transformation, e-marketing and AI, held in Ebène. The Economic Development Board (EDB) Director of Export Promotion and Market Access, Mr Geerish Bucktowansing; the Chairperson of Made in Moris, Mr Sylvain Oxenham; and other stakeholders were also present at the opening ceremony.

Minister Ameer Meea highlighted the transformation taking place within the industrial sector against a backdrop of rising production costs, increased competition and evolving requirements on international markets. In this context, he emphasised the need for enterprises to embrace more productive, innovative and technology-enabled approaches.

The Minister pointed out that AI can play an important role in addressing labour shortages while improving several areas of industrial operations. These include demand forecasting, inventory management, predictive maintenance, quality control and energy management.

He further underlined that Mauritius must strengthen its competitive edge through quality, reliability, innovation, compliance and a greater focus on specialised markets. While reaffirming Government’s commitment to modernise the industrial framework, he recalled ongoing initiatives, including the preparation of a new industrial law and an industrial sector strategy aimed at fostering a smarter, more sustainable and export-oriented industrial sector.

For his part, Mr Bucktowansing observed that digital transformation and AI are increasingly becoming practical tools for enterprises to reduce costs, improve operations and identify potential buyers abroad. He stressed the importance for businesses to first identify their specific challenges before adopting appropriate technological solutions.

As for Mr Oxenham, he underscored the importance of supporting local manufacturers in adopting new technologies and consolidating their position in export markets.

The workshop, organised by the EDB in collaboration with the Human Resource Development Council, brought together representatives of the industrial sector and experts to explore the practical application of digital technologies to improve business performance and access to international markets.

Participants will also benefit from follow-up support through an eight-week intervention designed to assist them in applying the knowledge and tools acquired during the workshop within their respective businesses.

17 September 2026

Email: gis@govmu.org

Website: https://gis.govmu.org

Mobile App: GIS News

Topics: Business, SME, Industry