Enterprise Mauritius: Japan a potential emerging export market for Mauritius

To further enhance Mauritius as a reliable sourcing destination, Enterprise Mauritius (EM) is renewing the participation of Mauritian Producers/Exporters of food & beverage (agro-industry products) in the 42nd edition of FOODEX to be held from 7th-10th March 2017 in Japan.

A special JETRO zone will be set-up in ‘FOODEX JAPAN 2017’ by Japan External Trade Organisation (Jetro). This zone will be a good platform to showcase foods from developing countries which can be of interest to the Japanese market. This is a good opportunity to enter the Japanese market. Mauritius got the privilege to be among the 40 participants in this specific Zone. The following companies will form part of the Mauritian delegation at Foodex Japan: (i) Exquisite Spices Ltd, (ii) HKS Management Ltd, (iii) Miel’Or Ltd, (iv) Nivaved lotus Enterprise Ltd and (v) Secret Grand Mere Ltd.

The objectives of the Mauritian participation are:

• To tap into the enormous potential of the Far-East (Japan and the region) for the Mauritian agro-industry
• To position Mauritius as a preferred and reliable sourcing destination of quality products
• Follow-up with existing contacts established in Japan, and discuss possibilities of exporting other products

Japan, a member of the G7, is a potential emerging export market for Mauritius. It has a population of 128 million, relishing a GDP per capita of USD 38, 634 in 2015, which is forecasted to reach USD 43,503 in 2018. It imports 60% of its foods from abroad and represents a huge fashion market that offers real opportunities for Mauritian manufacturers. 

In 2014, a market survey was conducted of Japan which revealed that there was potential for textile, apparel and accessories’ exportation. 

Total domestic exports to Japan increased by 939% in 2014. This was due to the boom in export of agro products--mostly tuna. Textile and apparel products experienced a steady increase of up to Rs. 38.0 million in 2014 but fell to Rs 21.6 million in 2015. Export of other products, comprising mostly of non-mounted diamonds, sunglasses and accessories, rose to Rs 4.9 million in 2015.