According to Statistics Mauritius, the country's unemployment rate improved to 5.5% in the second quarter of 2026, down from 5.7% in the first quarter and 5.9% in the same period last year. This positive trend, however, masks a more complex reality. The number of employed individuals decreased from 553,700 to 550,600 between the first and second quarters of 2026, representing a loss of 3,100 jobs over three months.
The decline in employment numbers is accompanied by an increase in the number of people considered inactive, rising from 403,800 to 409,000, or 5,200 more individuals. This combination of factors highlights that unemployment can decrease even when the number of employed people drops, particularly when some individuals stop actively seeking work and are no longer counted as unemployed.
Statistics Mauritius estimates that 32,000 people were unemployed in the second quarter, with 17,600 being women, accounting for 55% of the total, and 14,400 being men. The situation remains concerning for young people, with approximately 11,600 unemployed individuals aged between 16 and 24, representing 36% of all jobless people.
The level of qualification also plays a significant role, with around 14,700 unemployed individuals, or 46%, lacking a School Certificate or equivalent qualification. Furthermore, 5,600 jobless people live in households where no one is employed. These statistics underscore the need for a more nuanced understanding of the labor market.
These findings complement recent data on large Mauritian establishments, which showed limited net job creation over the past 12 months. Although the two surveys measure different aspects, they raise a common question: is the Mauritian economy generating sufficient jobs to absorb those seeking work?
The decrease in unemployment from 5.7% to 5.5% is a genuine statistical improvement. However, when this decline coincides with 3,100 fewer employed individuals and 5,200 more people outside the labor market, the unemployment rate requires more in-depth interpretation. Policymakers should focus not only on reducing the unemployment percentage but also on sustainably increasing the number of Mauritians finding and retaining productive employment.
Ultimately, the goal should be to create an environment that supports job creation and economic growth, enabling more Mauritians to access and maintain employment. By addressing the root causes of unemployment and underemployment, the government and other stakeholders can work towards a more sustainable and inclusive labor market.
Key points
- The unemployment rate in Mauritius decreased to 5.5% in Q2 2026 despite a loss of 3,100 jobs in three months.
- The number of unemployed youth aged 16-24 is approximately 11,600, accounting for 36% of all jobless people.
- Around 46% of unemployed individuals lack a School Certificate or equivalent qualification.
