The financial landscape of Mauritius is undergoing a significant transformation, with a notable decline in cheque usage and a surge in digital transactions. According to data released by the Bank of Mauritius in its monthly statistical bulletin for September 2026, the use of cheques has continued to decrease, while digital and automated banking payment methods have gained popularity. In September 2026, 240,466 cheques were processed through the Cheque Clearance system, totalling approximately Rs 20.46 billion.
This decline in cheque usage is evident when compared to previous years. In October 2024, 326,127 cheques were processed, totalling Rs 24.34 billion, while in October 2025, 305,433 cheques were processed, totalling Rs 22.73 billion. The daily average of cheques processed has fallen below 11,500 units in September 2026, with 11,451 cheques processed daily, valued at approximately Rs 947.3 million. This trend is consistent throughout 2026, with January seeing 188,267 cheques, April seeing 230,052 cheques, and August seeing 211,743 cheques.
The decline in cheque usage is being offset by a significant increase in digital transactions. The Mauritius Automated Clearing and Settlement System (MACSS), a real-time settlement system operated by the central bank, processed 153,409 transactions in September 2026, totalling Rs 2,375.84 billion. This represents a daily average of Rs 113.13 billion. The increasing popularity of digital transactions is driven by the growing use of bank cards, with over 2.26 million cards in circulation at the end of August 2026.
The use of bank cards has led to a significant increase in transactions, with over 10.14 million transactions recorded in August 2026. Mobile payment and digital banking services also saw significant growth, with 1.81 million subscribers and 12.92 million transactions recorded in August 2026, valued at Rs 42.55 billion. Internet banking services had over 807,000 registered clients, with a monthly transaction volume of Rs 927.18 billion in August 2026.
The shift towards digital payments is part of a broader strategy by Mauritian financial authorities to modernize the country's financial infrastructure, increase transaction security, and reduce logistical costs associated with paper-based transactions. While cheques still maintain a presence in the business world and for occasional settlements, their importance in the overall economy is gradually diminishing.
The increasing adoption of digital payment systems is expected to continue, driven by the government's efforts to promote financial inclusion and modernization. The growth of digital transactions is also likely to lead to increased efficiency and reduced costs for businesses and individuals. As the financial landscape of Mauritius continues to evolve, it is likely that digital payments will become an increasingly dominant form of transaction.
The Bank of Mauritius's efforts to promote digital payments and modernize the financial infrastructure are expected to have a positive impact on the country's economy. The decline in cheque usage and the growth of digital transactions are indicative of a broader shift towards a more modern and efficient financial system. As the country continues to move towards a more digital economy, it is likely that the benefits of this shift will be felt across various sectors.
Key points
- Digital transactions in Mauritius surged to Rs 2,375.84 billion in September 2026.
- Cheque transactions in Mauritius declined to 240,466 in September 2026.
- Over 2.26 million bank cards were in circulation in Mauritius at the end of August 2026.
