Five years after the launch of the New Economy initiative, Réunion Region publishes a full-scale assessment and opens a second chapter firmly anchored in artificial intelligence, streamlined support and co-construction with the business community.
An unprecedented track record: 12,000 businesses supported
Since 2021, Réunion Region has mobilised €115 million from its own resources through 14 economic programmes, supporting more than 12,000 businesses. Regional public procurement now reaches €350 million committed annually, making it the primary economic support mechanism on the island.
Among the flagship programmes, the FAIRE fund granted 240 loans totalling €30 million, of which 96% went to micro-businesses. KAP TPE supported 171 companies, sustaining 227 jobs and creating 175 new ones. PRIM'EXPORT deployed €2.17 million to help 161 firms break into export markets.
Act II: Anchor, Accelerate, Gather
On 12 August 2026, Regional President Huguette Bello officially launched Act II around three strategic priorities. Anchor means strengthening local production and preparing businesses for AI and robotisation. Accelerate targets simpler access to support schemes and increased investment. Gather bets on a roadmap co-built with the economic community through consultations and a regional convention.
Early measures include a mandatory e-invoicing scheme by end-2026 and reinforced early-warning mechanisms for business failure — a strong signal in a still-fragile economic environment.
Why it matters
Réunion is competing in a regional race where Mauritius and neighbouring islands are investing heavily in digital and AI. With €115 million committed and a new AI-centred roadmap, the Region signals ambition to investors and local entrepreneurs alike. The real test will be whether those 12,000 supported businesses can be transformed into resilient players for the next decade.
Source: Outremers360 / Réunion Region — August 2026