The Medef Réunion, a prominent business organization in La Réunion, has released a white paper titled "Ensemble, cap vers une économie réunionnaise robuste" (Together, towards a robust Reunionese economy). The document outlines the organization's economic doctrine and proposes a new approach to developing the island. The white paper was presented on September 28, 2026, and will be presented to the government in Paris on October 1, 2026, during the Choose Outre-mer event.
The Medef Réunion's president, Katy Hoarau, initiated the project when she took office in June 2025. The goal was to create a roadmap for the organization's think tank. The white paper lists ten priorities, including the adoption of a law on orientation and programming for La Réunion, which aims to provide a decade-long vision for the island. Another key priority is a plan to relaunch economic activity in 2027.
The white paper proposes a change in perspective on La Réunion, moving beyond the constraints of financial laws and social security financing laws. Jérôme Isautier, treasurer adjoint and former president of Medef Réunion, emphasized the need for La Réunion to become a champion in areas where it has decided to excel. He also suggested exempting products from Ultra Peripheral Regions (RUP) from Value-Added Tax (VAT) when destined for continental Europe.
The document shares similarities with the "strategic compass of French Oceania" presented by Les Entrepreneurs (formerly CPME) last year. However, despite the creation of the Socle platform, a unified stance among the main Reunionese business organizations has not yet been achieved. Katy Hoarau assured that this would be the final step in their approach and expressed openness to a Territorial Conference of Public Action (CTAP).
La Réunion has not yet utilized the CTAP, a possibility for global consultation at the departmental level offered by law. In April, the Economic and Social Council voted for a motion stating that CTAP should become a central governance tool for the island. The Medef Réunion's white paper aims to guide proposals for La Réunion's development and presents a vision for a robust Reunionese economy.
The author of the article, Bernard Grollier, is a journalist with a background in political science and journalism. He has been active in La Réunion since 1987 and has authored books on the island and the Indian Ocean. Grollier is familiar with the Reunionese economic fabric and has varied interests.
The release of the white paper marks a significant step in Medef Réunion's efforts to shape the island's economic future. The organization's proposals will be presented to the government in Paris, and the document's impact on La Réunion's economic development remains to be seen. The Medef Réunion's initiative aims to contribute to the island's growth and prosperity.
Key points
- Medef Réunion presents a white paper outlining its economic vision for La Réunion.
- The document proposes a change in perspective on La Réunion, moving beyond financial constraints.
- The white paper lists ten priorities, including a law on orientation and programming for La Réunion.
