Pakistan–Mauritius trade far below potential, envoy tells LCCI

The High Commissioner of Mauritius, Munsoo Kurrimbaccus, has said Pakistan's global image does not reflect the reality he observed during his visit, noting that the country is far more beautiful than portrayed and that he will work to present its positive image internationally. According to a statement issued on Wednesday, he made these remarks during a visit to the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI).

LCCI President Faheemur Rehman Sehgal said Pakistan and Mauritius enjoy long-standing relations, but bilateral trade remains far below potential. He said both sides must work together to address the trade imbalance. He noted that Pakistan mainly exports rice, textiles and pharmaceutical products to Mauritius, while Mauritius exports iron, steel and other goods to Pakistan.

He stressed the need to expand the product basket and focus on value addition. Sehgal said there are opportunities for cooperation in halal food, technology and human resource development.

The high commissioner said current trade volumes are extremely low and recalled that a Preferential Trade Agreement previously existed between the two countries, which had helped boost trade but is no longer in place.

He suggested cooperation in health, education and technology, noting that international universities operate campuses in Mauritius and proposing that at least one Pakistani university establish a campus there.

He also said the absence of direct flights between Pakistan and Mauritius remains a major obstacle to trade and connectivity. He added that Mauritius has a maritime area of around 2m square kilometres and invited Pakistan to explore cooperation in the blue economy.