India and Mauritius are exploring ways to widen their trade agreement by adding more products and improving market access. Both sides are also discussing non-tariff barriers and other trade-related concerns.
Highlights
- India and Mauritius are discussing expanding the scope of their Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA).
- The two countries are considering adding more products to the preferential trade framework.
- Mauritius has sought greater market access for around 310 Indian product lines.
- India is seeking preferential access for more items beyond the 615 products already covered under the agreement.
New Delhi: India and Mauritius are looking to expand trade cooperation by widening the coverage of their existing Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA). The two countries are expected to discuss the possibility of including additional products and improving preferential market access.
According to the report, the issue is likely to come up during the India-Mauritius High Powered Joint Trade Committee (HPJTC) meeting scheduled to begin on October 7. The three-day meeting is expected to be led by senior officials from both countries.
A key item on the agenda will be additional market access for products. Mauritius has sought preferential access for around 310 Indian product lines. India, meanwhile, is looking for preferential market access for more products beyond the 615 products currently covered under the agreement.
The Commerce Department has also sought inputs from Indian industry on non-tariff barriers and other trade-related concerns faced in the Mauritian market. Discussions are expected to cover impediments and possible measures to improve bilateral trade.
Indian products that already receive preferential duties in Mauritius include food and beverages, agricultural products, textiles, metals, electrical and electronic items, plastics, chemicals and wood products, among others. Mauritius also gets increased market access for products such as frozen fish, speciality sugar, biscuits, fresh fruits, juices, mineral water, beer, alcoholic beverages, soaps, bags, medical and surgical equipment and apparel.
Trade data cited in the report shows that India’s exports to Mauritius rose from $442 million in FY21 to $473.64 million in FY26. The proposed expansion of CECPA could further diversify exports and provide businesses in both countries with access to a wider range of products.
