Five years after launching its economic support initiative, the Réunion Region has released detailed figures on its New Economy program and is now moving to a new phase: Act II, focused on transformations driven by artificial intelligence, robotization, and digitalization.
€115 Million and 12,000 Companies: The Report Card
Since 2021, the Region has mobilized €115 million through 14 business support programs. In total, more than 12,000 companies have benefited from this support across all sectors. The FAIRE financing program distributed 240 loans totaling €30 million — with 96% directed to micro-enterprises, demonstrating the program's deep roots in the local business fabric.
Targeted Programs, Concrete Results
The KAP TPE program, dedicated to very small businesses, supported 171 companies in its first year, sustaining 227 existing jobs and anticipating 175 new positions. On the international front, PRIM'EXPORT supported 161 companies across 271 applications, disbursing €2.17 million. Additionally, €350 million is invested annually through regional public procurement, generating a significant multiplier effect on the local economy.
Act II: Anchor, Accelerate, Unite
Regional President Huguette Bello presented three strategic priorities for the next phase: "anchor, accelerate and unite." Act II aims to prepare Réunion's businesses for the transformations imposed by AI and robotization, simplify access to support programs, and strengthen local production. An e-invoicing support program will be launched before the end of 2026.
AI and Robotization: The New Strategic Priorities
The Region also plans to support the development of image industries and facilitate energy and digital transitions. Early intervention mechanisms for struggling businesses will be strengthened. A Regional Economic Convention will be organized to consult SMEs on strategic directions, in a spirit of co-construction with the entrepreneurial community.
Why It Matters
Réunion faces a structurally high unemployment rate (18% in Q1 2026) and heavy dependence on public transfers. The rise of AI and automation is both a threat to low-skilled jobs and an opportunity for modernizing the productive fabric. Act II aims to make digital transition a lever for economic inclusion rather than a driver of social polarization.
Sources: Outremers360, Imazpress, Temoignages.re (August 2026).