The International Business Dialogue series continued with a discussion about South Africa becoming a more effective "Window to Africa". Certain territories are or can be natural windows to another territory or larger markets, which can expand exports of goods and services, or facilitate trade. 

Enterprise Mauritius

Enterprise Mauritius, the National Trade Promotion Organisation of the Island of Mauritius, led a delegation of apparel manufacturers for a trade promotion in Durban, where they showcased a wide range of products from t-shirts, shirts, knitwear, uniforms and denim designed for ladies, men and kids wear.

Over the last 45 years, Mauritius has earned a good name as a quality and reliable apparel manufacturer. It is known to be a major exporter to leading world buyers among Arcadia group (UK), Tommy Hilfiger, USA and Orchestra, France amongst others.

Addressing businesses at the Durban Chamber conference centre Sipho Kaunda, Chairman of the Economic Development Committee, eThekwini Municipality stated, “Relations between South Africa and Mauritius were formalised in 1992 with the establishing of representative offices in both countries. Full diplomatic relations were established in 1994. Upon South Africa's return to the Commonwealth, relations have been conducted at the level of High Commission. It is important that we take advantage of the existing relations for the economic benefit of our local economies in line with our aims to achieve inclusive economic growth. We believe that opportunities that exist especially in textile, clothing industry can assist these two countries”.

The head of the Mauritian delegation, GeerishBucktowonsing, Divisional Manager of Enterprise Mauritius, explained that Mauritius has built its reputation on the basis of technological innovation to shorten lead time, assured levels of quality, reliability, on-time delivery and compliance and to international norms and standards.

The ambitions of Mauritius are not to compete internationally on price alone or beat competition with the cheapest possible offer but to stand as a reliable supplier that can meet sourcing demands in a responsible and a flexible manner. Further, Enterprise Mauritius is putting maximum efforts to increase intra trade among SADC countries - Mauritius and South Africa as Rainbow Nations can pave way to consolidate exchange of goods and services and bring people closer to each other.

Enterprise Mauritius is engaged to consolidate trade with existing buyers and to diversify to new customers in Durban. The latter is less than four hours from Mauritius and easily connected from Port Louis by sea. Hence, Mauritian Entrepreneurs look to connect with stakeholders in Durban and build strong trade and business partnerships.

If you require more information about the Durban Chamber International Business offering, please contact RokeyaValli on vallir@durbanchamber.co.za.