The inflation of all dangers
Inflation could reach 6,7% in Mauritius in 2022, according to forecasts from the Bank of Mauritius, who, however, feel that this figure could be exceeded due to current uncertainties, linked to the war in Ukraine. As of February 28 and over twelve months, prices increased by 5,2% in the country. Mauritian inflation will inevitably be pushed upwards, in the coming weeks, by the rise in fuel prices. Mi-avril, the price of diesel stood at 49,60 rupees (1,06 euro) in the sister island and that of the super at 67,40 rupees (1,44 euro). The latest increase caused anger followed by arrests in Rose-Hill, April 20. The continued rise in prices could accentuate social instability in a country already weakened by two years of health crisis. Public pressure is emerging to obtain an increase in the minimum wage, which currently stands at 11,075 rupees (around 237 euros). This perspective, which would lead to a generalized demand for an increase in all salaries, is currently refused by the private sector.
Uncertain growth forecasts
“Sharp rise in input costs resulting from soaring commodity and energy prices and disrupted supply chains, coupled with downward revisions among our main trading partners”, will visibly weigh “on the strength of the recovery observed locally”, we read in the April Focus of the Mauritius Commercial Bank. For the moment, MCB forecasts growth of 6,2% of the Mauritian economy, while highlighting the uncertainties about international developments in the short term. Only positive point : tourist activity seems to be picking up strongly and initial forecasts for 2022 could be exceeded.
Controversial real estate project in Roches-Noires
A protest movement was taking shape, mi-avril, to block a vast tourist project consisting of building a resort of 90 luxury villas in Roches-Noires, on the northeast coast of the island. Worn by a French group, it would see the light of day on 358 hectares of wetlands and mangroves, near the coastal barachois, considered remarkable natural spaces. The Mauritian State has opened a public consultation ending on April 30, before deciding whether or not to give the environmental green light to the project.
