Lean Manufacturing programme launched to boost productivity and export competitiveness

A two-day capacity building programme on “Lean Manufacturing and Industrial Engineering” opened, this morning in Ebène, with the objective of improving productivity, operational efficiency, and export competitiveness within Mauritius’ manufacturing sector. The programme is being organised jointly by the Economic Development Board (EDB), the Human Resource Development Council (HRDC), and the National Productivity and Competitiveness Council (NPCC).

The Minister of Industry, SME and Cooperatives, Mr Sayed Muhammad Aadil Ameer Meea; the Chief Executive Officer of the EDB, Mr Mahen Abhimanu Kundasamy; the Executive Director of the NPCC, Dr Vinaye Ancharaz; the Chairperson of the HRDC, Mr Bhooyasheel Akshay Seedoyal; and other personalities were present at the opening ceremony.

The programme is targeting exporting Small and Medium Enterprises and mid-market enterprises operating in key sectors such as Textile & Apparel, Light Engineering, Jewellery, and Food & Drink. It has been introduced in response to rising production costs, increasing global competition, labour shortages, and the growing need for more efficient and value-added manufacturing systems. Following the training sessions, participating enterprises will benefit from a six-month implementation phase comprising factory-based interventions and productivity improvement projects.

In his address, Minister Ameer Meea underlined that manufacturing remains a major pillar of the Mauritian economy, accounting for more than 89,000 jobs and generating over Rs 60 billion in exports. He nevertheless pointed out that the sector is operating in an increasingly competitive global environment and emphasised the importance of improving productivity through smarter production methods, reduced inefficiencies, and better operational planning.

The Minister further highlighted that the programme is a strategic intervention that combines technical training with practical implementation, with the aim of strengthening operational efficiency and fostering a culture of continuous improvement within enterprises’ production processes. He also underscored the importance of strong institutional collaboration, encouraging enterprises to actively engage in the process in order to build greater resilience and enhance their long-term competitiveness.

For his part, Dr Ancharaz pointed to ongoing economic pressures facing Mauritius, including subdued growth prospects and the need to strengthen export performance in order to address structural trade imbalances. He emphasised that enhancing manufacturing competitiveness remains essential, particularly through improved efficiency in key sectors such as textiles, agro-processing, and light manufacturing, which continue to hold significant growth potential. He further underscored the importance of practical support to enterprises, including digitalisation and productivity tools, to help firms adapt, innovate, and remain competitive in an increasingly challenging global environment.

11 May 2026

Email: gis@govmu.org

Website: https://gis.govmu.org

Mobile App: GIS News

Topics: Trade