The Mauritian government has approved a study to assess the socio-economic impact of foreign workers in the country. The study, to be conducted by local consultants, will evaluate the contribution of foreign workers to economic growth, productivity, and employment. It will also identify strategic skills and occupations that Mauritius should prioritize to develop its local workforce. The study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the role of foreign workers in the country's economy and society.

The study was approved by the Council of Ministers on November 13, 2026, and will be conducted by the Ministry of Labor and Industrial Relations. The ministry will initiate the bidding process to select a local consultant or team to carry out the study. The study will examine the economic and social implications of the growing presence of foreign workers in Mauritius, including their impact on the labor market and social fabric.

One of the key objectives of the study is to determine a sustainable threshold for foreign workers in Mauritius. The consultants will assess the social and demographic implications of the increasing number of foreign workers and their impact on the country's social balance. They will also explore structural levers, such as skills development, productivity gains, and automation, to reduce the country's reliance on foreign labor.

The study will provide recommendations for a sustainable policy framework to manage the use of foreign workers in the future. The government aims to use the study's findings to develop effective policies and strategies for managing the influx of foreign workers and promoting the development of the local workforce. The study will also examine the impact of foreign workers on the country's economy and society.

The consultants will analyze the impact of foreign workers on various sectors of the economy, including their contribution to economic growth, productivity, and employment. They will also identify areas where foreign workers are concentrated and assess the implications of their presence on the local labor market. The study will provide a comprehensive understanding of the role of foreign workers in Mauritius.

The government has recognized the need to balance the economic benefits of foreign workers with social and demographic considerations. The study will provide a framework for managing the use of foreign workers in a way that promotes economic growth, social stability, and sustainable development. The findings of the study will inform policy decisions on the use of foreign workers in Mauritius.

The study is expected to be completed within a reasonable timeframe, and its findings will be made public. The government has emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in the management of foreign workers, and the study is seen as a key step in achieving this goal. The study will contribute to the development of effective policies and strategies for managing the use of foreign workers in Mauritius.

Key points

  • The study aims to determine a sustainable threshold for foreign workers in Mauritius.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.