eCommerce in Mauritius – Latest Stats in 2024

Explore the dynamic world of eCommerce in Mauritius with our insightful guide. Discover key trends shaping the online retail sector on the island. Whether you’re a business owner or a consumer, stay informed and thrive in the Mauritius eCommerce landscape.

An introduction to eCommerce in Mauritius

eCommerce has become an integral part of global trade, and Mauritius, a small island nation in the Indian Ocean, is no exception to this digital revolution. In recent years, the eCommerce sector in Mauritius has experienced significant growth, driven by factors such as increasing internet penetration, changing consumer preferences, and the government’s efforts to promote digitalization.

Current State of eCommerce in Mauritius:

eCommerce in Mauritius – Latest Stats in 2024

eCommerce in Mauritius is on the rise, especially since the COVID-19 outbreak, with total digital revenues reaching approximately Rs 6.1 billion in 2020.
In 2020, eCommerce contributed significantly to digital revenues, generating Rs 4.7 billion, accounting for 76.4 percent of the total.
Despite a 62 percent internet penetration rate in 2020, some remote areas lack the required speed and bandwidth for modern eCommerce transactions, leading to the upgrade to fiber broadband.
Notable eCommerce platforms in Mauritius include marideal.mu, priceguru.mu, and mychauffeur.mu, catering to various services from tourism deals to hiring services.
While traditional information gathering dominated website use in the past, the COVID-19 pandemic prompted a shift to online platforms for product sales, though many smaller businesses still rely on Facebook for reaching customers.
The Mauritian eCommerce market, led by segments like fashion and electronics, is projected to experience a positive annual growth of 16.5 percent by 2025, with FinTech transactions expected to increase by 24.2 percent by the same year, reaching a transaction value of approximately Rs 8.9 billion.
Source: https://www.trade.gov/country-commercial-guides/mauritius-market-overview

eCommerce Mauritius - Market Overview

Mauritius, with a population of 1.3 million, boasts a competitive economy, with a GDP of approximately Rs 296 billion in 2021 and a per capita GDP of Rs 701,846.
The World Bank classified Mauritius as a high-income country in July 2020, but due to COVID-19 impacts, it reverted to upper-middle-income status in July 2021, experiencing a 15 percent GDP contraction in 2020.
Key sectors include textiles, tourism, financial services, ICT, seafood processing, real estate, energy, and education. The government aims to boost the ocean economy and invest in sectors like aquaculture, biotechnology, renewable energy, and ICT.
The economy is projected to rebound, with the World Bank forecasting GDP growth of 5.8 percent in 2022 and 6 percent in 2023, despite global challenges like low growth, high inflation, and geopolitical tensions.
Mauritius maintains business-friendly policies, ranking 30th globally in the 2022 Index of Economic Freedom and securing the top spot in Sub-Saharan Africa. It also excels in innovation, ranking first in the Global Innovation Index Report 2021.
In terms of trade, the United States is the fourth-largest export market for Mauritius, with bilateral trade valued at approximately Rs 23.9 billion in 2021. Major exports include textiles, apparel, precious stones, and seafood. Mauritius also has trade agreements with various countries, including China, India, and those in Africa and Europe.
The political environment in Mauritius is marked by stability, with free and fair elections held every five years. While mass protests occurred in 2020 and 2021, they were orderly. Crime rates are low, but visitors are advised to be cautious, especially in crowded areas and at night.

How does eCommerce work?

Brief Overview of how eCommerce works.

eCommerce in Mauritius operates through online platforms where businesses showcase and sell their products or services. Consumers can browse these platforms, add items to their virtual shopping carts, and proceed to checkout for payment.

Transactions are often facilitated through secure payment gateways, including credit/debit cards and digital wallets. Once the payment is confirmed, businesses arrange for the delivery of the purchased items to the customer’s specified address.

eCommerce relies heavily on digital marketing strategies, including social media promotions and search engine optimization, to attract and engage customers.

The convenience, accessibility, and a wide variety of products offered online contribute to the success of eCommerce in the Mauritian market.

How to start an eCommerce business in Mauritius?

1. Market Research

Conduct thorough market research to identify niche opportunities, understand consumer behavior, and analyze competitors in the Mauritian eCommerce landscape.

2. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

Familiarize yourself with Mauritius’ eCommerce regulations, obtain necessary licenses, and ensure compliance with tax laws. Consider consulting legal professionals for guidance.

3. Create a Business Plan

Develop a comprehensive business plan outlining your goals, target audience, marketing strategies, and financial projections. This plan will serve as a roadmap for your eCommerce venture.

4. Choose a Reliable eCommerce Platform

Select a user-friendly and secure eCommerce platform that aligns with your business needs. Popular options include Shopify, WooCommerce, or custom solutions provided by local developers.

5. Payment Gateway Integration

Set up secure and convenient payment gateways to facilitate transactions. Collaborate with reliable payment service providers to ensure a smooth payment process for your customers.

6. Optimize for Mobile Devices

Design your eCommerce website to be mobile-friendly, as a significant portion of online transactions in Mauritius occurs through mobile devices.

7. Establish Logistics and Delivery Partnerships

Form partnerships with reputable logistics and delivery services to ensure timely and reliable shipping. Clearly communicate shipping policies and costs to customers.

8. Digital Marketing Strategy

Develop a robust digital marketing strategy incorporating social media, search engine optimization (SEO), and email marketing to promote your eCommerce business and attract customers.

We provide free digital marketing advice to businesses.

9. Customer Support and Engagement

Prioritize customer support and engagement. Provide clear communication channels, respond promptly to inquiries, and gather feedback to enhance the overall customer experience.

10. Monitor and Adapt

Continuously monitor your eCommerce performance, analyze key metrics, and adapt strategies based on market trends and customer feedback. Stay agile and responsive to ensure sustained growth.

Starting an eCommerce Business in Mauritius - Legal Requirements

1. Business Registration

Initiate the process by registering your business with the Registrar of Companies. This involves submitting a chosen business name, furnishing comprehensive details about business owners and shareholders, and settling a registration fee.

2. Trade License

Depending on the nature of your business, securing a trade license may be necessary. Obtain this license from the Municipal City Council or District Council in the operational area.

3. Value Added Tax (VAT) Registration

If your annual turnover surpasses MUR 6 million, mandatory registration for VAT is required through the Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA).

4. Data Protection Act

Strict compliance with the 2017 Data Protection Act is imperative, ensuring the proper safeguarding of customer data.

5. Electronic Transactions Act

Recognizing the importance of electronic signatures in eCommerce transactions, the 2000 Electronic Transactions Act is a key legal consideration.

6. Cyber Crime and Computer Misuse Act

eCommerce entities must be well-versed in and adhere to the regulations outlined in the 2003 Cyber Crime and Computer Misuse Act, governing cyber activities.

Top 10 online stores in Mauritius

1. Decathlon Mauritius

Decathlon, a global sports and outdoor retailer, has a strong presence in Mauritius. The Decathlon Mauritius website allows customers to browse and purchase a wide range of sports equipment, clothing, and accessories online.

2. Manjoo

Manjoo is a well-known Mauritian retail brand that offers a variety of products, including electronics, appliances, and household goods. The Manjoo online store provides customers with the convenience of shopping for their products from anywhere in Mauritius.

3. Mocadi Online Groceries Delivery Service

Mocadi is a simple and user-friendly platform committed to delivering a delightful experience of online grocery shopping in just a few clicks. We operate an online marketplace that provides the convenience of buying groceries from your home with just three simple steps: search, select, pay.

4. Woolworths Mauritius

Woolworths online shopping in Mauritius for Menswear, Womenswear, Kidsware, Beauty and also Homeware. Home delivery everywhere in Mauritius.

5. Mango Mauritius

Discover the latest trends in Mango fashion, footwear and accessories. Shop the best outfits for this season at our online store.

6. Courts Mammouth

Are you tired of hopping from one store to another in search of the perfect products? Look no further! Courts Mammouth brings you the convenience of online shopping right to your fingertips. With a wide range of products, including Smartphones,Smartwatches, Headphones, TV, Projector, Camera, Flooring, Electric bikes, Toys, Ovens, Bicycles, Drilling machines, Cctv cameras, Laptop bags, Sofa, and more, we are your one-stop solution for all your shopping needs in Mauritius.

7. ByNice Mauritius

Retail Business selling both online and in shop. We have a wide choice of trendy products and we offer Home Delivery everywhere in Mauritius and in Rodrigues.

8. Redline Mauritius

REDLINE is the official distributor and Service Centre for various business products and consumer Electronics products. Some of our brands are : SHARP Consumer Electronics, ELECTROLUX-AEG Brands, Elica, INDESIT, Promate, Vertux, Instant Pot, Ooni Pizza Portable Oven, Kuvings, AMT, Debuyer, TB Haute Coutellerie de France

9. Body and Soul Mauritius

Your Fashion Destination in Mauritius. Inspiring and uniting people through our passion for style since 2005.

10. 361 Mauritius

361 is one of the leading retailers of latest home appliances and electronics in Mauritius. From best-selling brands like Samsung, Huawei, TCL, Rinnai, Tefal, Dell, Acer, to genuine accessories at best prices, we offer you a seamless shopping experience both online and at your nearest 361 showrooms

Best eCommerce Development Company in Mauritius: Active Services Digital

Active Services Digital has emerged as a leading eCommerce development company in Mauritius, providing comprehensive solutions to businesses looking to establish and enhance their online presence. With a team of experienced developers and a client-centric approach, Active Services Digital offers a range of services, including website development, mobile app development, and eCommerce platform customization.

FAQs about eCommerce in Mauritius?

Now, we know you’ve got questions. Don’t worry; we’ve got answers. Let’s clear the air.

Where to shop online in Mauritius?

In Mauritius, popular online shopping destinations include platforms like Manjoo, Mocadi, and Decathlon Mauritius, offering a diverse range of products from electronics to fashion and sports equipment.

Refer to our list above.

What are the 3 types of eCommerce?

The three main types of eCommerce are Business-to-Consumer (B2C), Business-to-Business (B2B), and Consumer-to-Consumer (C2C). B2C involves businesses selling directly to consumers, B2B involves transactions between businesses, and C2C involves consumer-to-consumer transactions often facilitated by online platforms.

Is eCommerce Profitable?

eCommerce can be profitable, but success depends on factors such as effective marketing, product selection, and operational efficiency. Many businesses find profitability through a well-executed online presence, reaching a broader customer base.

Which is cheapest online shopping in Mauritius?

Determining the cheapest online shopping in Mauritius can vary based on product categories and ongoing promotions.

How to start business online?

To start a business online, identify your niche, conduct market research, create a business plan, choose a reliable e-commerce platform, optimize for mobile users, establish digital marketing strategies, and prioritize excellent customer support.

How much does it cost for eCommerce Website in Mauritius?

The cost of an e-commerce website in Mauritius can vary depending on factors such as complexity, features, and design. Working with local developers or using platforms like Shopify can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. It’s advisable to obtain quotes from web development professionals based on your specific requirements.

Blogs about eCommerce in Mauritius

Ultimate Guide to Building an Online Store with WooCommerce and WordPress in Mauritius

WooCommerce with WordPress is the perfect combination for setting up a powerful and flexible eCommerce website. In this guide, we’ll

July 19, 2024

Magento Ecommerce: A Comprehensive Guide

In the realm of online retail, Magento Ecommerce emerges as a powerhouse platform, offering robust solutions for businesses looking to

March 6, 2024

Shopify Dropshipping in Mauritius: A Comprehensive Guide

Within the e-commerce domain, Shopify dropshipping has risen as a favored business model, notably within Mauritius. This inventive strategy empowers

March 6, 2024

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