The Mauritian government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the country's tea sector through the Tea Sector Support Scheme. On October 1, 2026, a ceremony was held in Nouvelle France to distribute essential fertilizers and modern equipment to local farmers. The initiative aims to stimulate local production and strengthen the tea industry. The distribution was carried out in collaboration with the Small Farmers Welfare Fund (SFWF) and the Ministry of Agro-industry, Food Security, Blue Economy, and Fisheries.
During the ceremony, Dr. Arvin Boolell, Minister of Agro-industry, Food Security, Blue Economy, and Fisheries, emphasized the importance of developing the tea sector, a strategic industry for the country. He encouraged planters to adopt innovation and focus on high-value-added products. Dr. Boolell also reminded them of the availability of financial support plans from the Development Bank of Mauritius (DBM).
The government has increased the budget allocated to the Tea Sector Support Scheme for the 2026-2027 financial year. Junior Minister Gilles Fabrice David announced that the budget has been revised upwards from Rs 8 million to Rs 13 million. This increase aims to provide more substantial support to small tea planters and help modernize the sector.
Junior Minister Anishta Babooram highlighted the importance of tea in Mauritian culture, noting that it remains a popular beverage among locals. However, she also pointed out that the country still imports a significant portion of its tea consumption. The government's initiative aims to reduce this dependence on imports by boosting local production.
The Tea Sector Support Scheme provides registered small tea planters with vouchers for NPK and CAN fertilizers, essential for improving crop yields. These fertilizers are delivered directly to the beneficiaries' local areas according to a schedule established by the SFWF. The planters receive the fertilizers in two stages, from September to October and from January to February.
Deputy Ashley Ramdass encouraged young people to invest in tea cultivation and invited planters to take advantage of mechanization assistance. He emphasized the potential for growth in the sector and the importance of supporting small tea planters. The government's support aims to help them increase their production and competitiveness.
The distribution of fertilizers and equipment is part of the government's efforts to support the tea sector and promote local production. The initiative is expected to have a positive impact on the industry, enabling small tea planters to improve their yields and contribute to the country's food security and economic development.
Key points
- The Mauritian government has increased the budget for the Tea Sector Support Scheme to Rs 13 million for 2026-2027.
- The scheme provides registered small tea planters with vouchers for NPK and CAN fertilizers to improve crop yields.
- The initiative aims to reduce Mauritius' dependence on imported tea by boosting local production.
