What is the first thing an investor who
wants to start a business in Mauritius
should think about?
The first priority should be the legislative
framework, including the consistency
between the country of origin and
Mauritius. A legal and tax advisor, familiar
with international structuration between
the two countries, should have all the
answers. The second crucial point is the
definition of the future business. Does it
take the form of a holding company or an
operational structure? Does the person
want a residency entitlement, to relocate
a part of his operations or to set up a
subsidiary? The aims, goals or reasons are
not the same: locating to Mauritius can be
motivated by business aims or by a desire
to make a fresh start. Before taking the
plunge, investors should seek advice and
consider the changes that this entails in
terms of adaptation, for example. It is a
long-term decision, hence the need to be
well informed before taking the plunge.
Getting advice also means having access
to a network of qualified professionals
who will mentor the person throughout
the process. Our clients very often ask
us to help them find business premises,
recommend a bank, a lawyer,
an accountant, or tell them about the
different schools and areas to settle in.
We share with them our own experience
and refer them to the professionals
with whom we work and whom
we trust.
In addition to the legislative framework,
the investor should also consider the
local conditions.
Definitely. We are fortunate to have many
similarities between the legal systems of
Europe and Mauritius. On family, real
estate, commercial and civil law, Mauritius
is very close to French law. However,
criminal law, labour legislation and the
Companies Act are closer to the British
system. But the investor also needs to
take the Mauritian customs into account.
For example, when taking on employees,
you need to be aware of the system of
allowances for the reimbursement of travel
or fuel co 7G2