This week, the textile industry is in turmoil due to an international scandal, an ongoing heat wave, and newly released figures indicating increased trade with Africa.
Shocking revelations cause turmoil in textile sector
The Mauritian textile sector is currently grappling with a major crisis following shocking revelations made by the American organization Transparentem. This investigative group alleges that foreign workers in several Mauritian textile factories are living in appalling conditions, ranging from a lack of access to drinking water to dormitories infested with cockroaches and bedbugs. Companies involved, including Real Garments, Denim de l'Île, Firemount Textiles, and Aquarelle, have suffered severe damage to their reputations.
In 2021, the export sector employed 15,116 foreigners out of a total workforce of 19,908, constituting 43%. Mauritius remains heavily reliant on its textile industry, which contributes to approximately a quarter of its exports.
Transparentem, specialized in investigating workers' rights, has denounced signs of forced labor, described by the International Labor Organization as a modern form of slavery. The Mauritian authorities, represented by the Mauritius Export Association (MEXA), have reaffirmed their commitment to protecting workers' rights while acknowledging the need to enhance the employment system for foreign workers.
Heat Wave: Temperatures soar above 34°C in some regions
Regarding the weather, January 4 marked the hottest day of the 2023-2024 summer in Mauritius, with temperatures exceeding 34°C, especially along the east coast. The heatwave, attributed to light northerly winds carrying warm, moist air, occurred between December 20 and 24, 2023, as well as between January 3 and 6, 2024. High humidity levels during this period, particularly in Plaisance, resulted in a heat index of 36°C with an ambient temperature of 30°C. On the Central Plateau, the index stood at around 35°C, while coastal areas, especially in the east and southeast, approached 40°C. Persistent north-westerly winds continued to transport warm air masses from equatorial regions and neighboring lands.
Exports to Africa up 77% since 2012
In terms of trade, the Mauritius Chamber of Commerce and Industry has disclosed a significant 77% increase in exports to African destinations such as South Africa, Madagascar, Reunion, Kenya, and the Seychelles since 2012. Although Mauritius' current market share of exports to Africa is 29%, there is emphasized potential for diversification into other African markets. Various sectors like garments, fish, knitted fabrics, raw pasta, plastic packaging products, carded wool yarn, rum, sugar, medical devices, aluminum products, and leather present opportunities for expansion.
Furthermore, collaboration with partners such as South Africa, Kenya, Seychelles, Tanzania, and Madagascar continues to flourish, highlighted by significant imports of garments, fabrics, cotton, and other products from Mauritius by these African nations. South Africa, in particular, stands out as one of Mauritius's main customers on the continent, importing products worth billions of rupees, including garments, fabrics, and cotton.
