Mauritius, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, commands approximately 1,140 km² of territorial waters and an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of over 2.3 million km² — a vast maritime territory rich in biodiversity. From coral reefs and seagrass meadows to deep-sea ecosystems, these marine assets are central to national life, supporting food security, tourism, fisheries, maritime transport, and research.
Recognizing the strategic value of its ocean space, Mauritius has placed the Blue Economy at the heart of its development agenda. The government continues to advance sustainable ocean governance through marine conservation, fisheries management, renewable energy, aquaculture, and maritime services. Significant investments in marine spatial planning, ocean surveillance, and climate-resilient infrastructure reflect the country’s commitment to balancing ecological protection with socioeconomic growth.
Mauritius aims to become a model for sustainable, island-based Blue Economy development in the Western Indian Ocean — integrating innovation, scientific research, and international cooperation to ensure a thriving ocean future.
Fisheries account for about 1.2% of national GDP, sustaining more than 29,000 livelihoods directly tied to fishing and related sectors. From artisanal and semi-industrial operations to a growing aquaculture industry, fisheries remain vital for food security, employment, and export revenue.
Mauritius’ marine environment hosts an extraordinary range of biodiversity, including tuna, grouper, and octopus species vital to both ecosystems and economies. The island’s coral reefs, among the most extensive in the Western Indian Ocean, serve as natural breakwaters, protect coastlines, and support artisanal fisheries and tourism. Seagrass beds and mangrove forests further contribute to carbon sequestration, fish nursery habitats, and ecosystem resilience.
Artisanal fishers, central to coastal communities, rely on traditional methods passed down through generations. Yet, these small-scale operations face increasing competition from industrial fleets, including foreign vessels. Limited monitoring and enforcement capacity heighten the risks of illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing (IUUF), threatening both fish stocks and community livelihoods. Strengthened regulation, transparent licensing, and inclusive governance remain crucial for sustainability.
The Jahazi Project works to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing (IUUF) and promote sustainable fisheries across Mauritius. The initiative partners with fishing communities, government agencies, and civil society to:
These efforts aim to empower communities and protect Mauritius’ unique marine ecosystems while supporting equitable growth in the Blue Economy.
Mauritius’ expansive EEZ makes it vulnerable to illegal foreign fishing activity, particularly beyond nearshore surveillance zones. The consequences are extensive:
Addressing IUUF requires enhanced maritime surveillance, stronger enforcement, and regional cooperation, alongside community-led fisheries management.
The government collaborates through regional bodies such as the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) and Southern Indian Ocean Fisheries Agreement (SIOFA) to strengthen enforcement and monitoring. However, challenges persist due to limited patrol capacity and high operational costs. Continued investment in technology, capacity-building, and inter-agency coordination is key to ensuring long-term sustainability.
Mauritius’ Fisheries and Marine Resources Act (2007) provides the foundation for sustainable management through licensing and ecosystem protection. Complementary policies such as the National Ocean Policy (2020) and Blue Economy Roadmap set strategic priorities for sustainable fisheries, aquaculture, and ocean industries.
The Mauritius National Coast Guard plays a central role in protecting the country’s vast EEZ — conducting patrols, search and rescue operations, and enforcing maritime law. Recent upgrades include radar systems, patrol vessels, and satellite-based tracking, yet coverage gaps remain in remote areas. Strengthening partnerships, improving real-time monitoring, and expanding aerial surveillance are vital to safeguard national marine resources.
Mauritius has designated several Marine Protected Areas — including Blue Bay, Pereybere, and Albion Marine Parks — to preserve coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and endangered species. These MPAs serve as biodiversity hotspots and ecotourism destinations that also help replenish fisheries and sustain local economies.
Local communities are increasingly engaged in the co-management of marine reserves, sharing responsibility for sustainable fishing and habitat restoration. These partnerships between government, NGOs, and residents help build resilient ecosystems and strengthen local stewardship.
To confront sea-level rise and ocean warming, Mauritius invests in mangrove replanting, coral reef restoration, and climate-resilient coastal infrastructure. Integrated coastal zone management and early warning systems enhance preparedness and protect both livelihoods and biodiversity.
Eco-tourism is emerging as a driver of sustainable growth, linking conservation with community benefit. Activities such as reef tours, mangrove walks, and snorkeling in protected areas generate income while fostering environmental awareness and preservation.
With rising demand for seafood and pressure on wild stocks, Mauritius is promoting aquaculture as a sustainable alternative. Supported by the Blue Economy Roadmap, the sector focuses on species such as red drum and shrimp, creating jobs and advancing food security while adhering to environmental standards.
Mauritius also has significant potential for wave, tidal, and ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC). Ongoing feasibility studies and international partnerships are exploring ways to integrate renewable ocean energy into the national grid — a step toward a low-carbon, resilient future.
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