Businesses holding an alcohol sales license in Mauritius will be required to renew their authorization no later than 14 January 2026. Failure to meet this deadline will trigger a 50% surcharge on the license fee. The measure, confirmed by the MRA, forms part of the Finance Act 2025, which tightens taxation and renewal conditions across the sector.
License renewals for 2026 must be completed exclusively online via the MRA website. Any payment made after the 14 January deadline will automatically incur a penalty equivalent to half the license amount, with no exemptions announced at this stage.
Higher taxes and license fees
As of 6 June 2025, excise duties on all alcoholic beverages, as well as on tobacco products, have increased by 10% for the entire 2025–2026 financial year. This increase applies across the whole supply chain, from importation to retail sales.
Moreover, annual license fees for both wholesale and retail alcohol sales have been doubled, significantly raising regulatory costs for bars, restaurants, hotels, guesthouses, and specialized retailers. Applications for the issuance or transfer of an excise license are now subject to a new administrative fee of Rs 1,500.
Strict renewal requirements
The MRA has reiterated that license renewals remain conditional on compliance with all applicable sector requirements. Businesses operating in tourism and hospitality must hold a valid Tourist Enterprise License (TEL) or Tourist Accommodation Certificate (TAC) for 2026 before they can renew their alcohol license.
Wholesale operators face additional obligations. Payment of the security deposit required by the MRA is mandatory to access the online renewal system.
The combined effect of higher excise duties, doubled license fees, and penalties for late renewal is expected to put pressure on operating costs across the sector. Restaurants and accommodation providers may be forced to adjust prices or absorb lower margins, particularly smaller establishments.
Importers and distributors are also affected, as higher excise duties increase product costs at the point of entry into Mauritius, while higher license fees add to annual fixed expenses.
A key issue for expats and entrepreneurs
Many expat entrepreneurs in the hospitality and food and beverage sectors are directly affected, as alcohol sales often account for a significant share of turnover. The MRA has stressed the importance of anticipating administrative procedures, as delays can lead to substantial financial penalties or even business disruptions.
For newcomers planning to launch a business in tourism or hospitality, the new regulatory framework raises the cost of market entry in Mauritius and requires more careful planning of fiscal and administrative obligations.
