KARACHI: High Commissioner of the Republic of Mauritius Munsoo Kurrimbaccus on Tuesday underscored the need for collective efforts by both countries to restore the preferential trade agreement (PTA) that previously existed between Pakistan and Mauritius, under which around 120 commodities enjoyed preferential market access.
He noted that the agreement had become inactive for various reasons and stressed that its revival could significantly boost bilateral trade.Exchanging views during a meeting at the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), the Mauritian High Commissioner said diplomatic ties between Pakistan and Mauritius date back to 1970, adding that Pakistan was the first country to establish its embassy in Mauritius following the island nation’s independence. While relations between the two countries have traditionally been cordial and cooperative, he observed that bilateral trade has slowed in recent years, requiring urgent attention.
The high commissioner pointed out that Mauritius currently imports significantly more from Pakistan than it exports, resulting in a sizeable trade imbalance. Pakistan’s exports to Mauritius include Basmati rice, cement, textiles, bedsheets, towels and other products, whereas Mauritian exports to Pakistan remain minimal.
He recalled that Mauritius had earlier exported pineapples to Pakistan, describing them as among the finest in the world, along with other premium tropical fruits such as lychees and mangoes. Referring to international markets, he noted that Mauritian lychees command the highest prices in France, surpassing those from Thailand, Madagascar and other competing countries.
He stressed the need to explore renewed opportunities for exporting Mauritian pineapples and fruits to Pakistan, while also encouraging Pakistan to expand its exports of pharmaceutical products to Mauritius. He acknowledged that although Pakistan produces high-quality pharmaceuticals at competitive prices — often at nearly half the cost of European products — issues related to certification, regulatory recognition and compliance need to be addressed to unlock this potential.
Discussing tourism, he said Mauritius is actively working to promote itself as a premium tourist destination, although it is not yet widely popular among Pakistani travellers.Turning to the Halal food sector, the high commissioner noted that the Muslim community in Mauritius is highly particular about Halal standards and currently imports Halal meat mainly from Australia and India. He emphasised that this sector holds significant untapped potential for Pakistani exporters, particularly as Mauritian Muslims prefer fresh Halal meat rather than frozen products. He encouraged exporters from Karachi to explore opportunities in Halal food exports to Mauritius.
Looking ahead, he said Mauritius is prioritising the blue and green economies, with a particular focus on ocean-based industries, including aquaculture and marine-derived pharmaceutical products. Despite being a small island, Mauritius has a vast exclusive economic zone of nearly two million square kilometres, making it an ocean state with immense potential. He expressed interest in collaborating with Pakistan on research and investment related to the blue economy.
Earlier, KCCI President Muhammad Rehan Hanif welcomed the visit, describing it as a reflection of growing interest in strengthening Pakistan-Mauritius economic relations, particularly in trade, investment and private-sector cooperation.
