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# [MAURITIUS] 2026-2027 Budget: Deficit Cut to 3.7% of GDP, a "Future-Ready" Plan Built on AI and Startups
- URL: https://businessoi.media/en/maurice-budget-2026-2027-deficit-ramene-a-3-7-du-pib-un-plan-future-ready-centre-sur-lia-et-les-startups-en/
- Published: 2026-07-20T02:56:01.000Z
- Updated: 2026-07-20T02:56:01.000Z
- Description: Mauritius cuts its budget deficit to 3.7% of GDP for 2026-27 (vs. 6% previously) and launches an ambitious programme: a Start-Up Act (10-year tax exemption), AI-for-All (25,000 Mauritians trained), and a high-tech SEZ at Côte d'Or.
- Author: Emmanuel TAOCHY
- Tags: Maurice, Économie, Tech, Startup, Investissement, Revue matinale, #en

**Mauritius' 2026-2027 budget marks a fiscal turning point: the deficit is projected at 3.7% of GDP, down from 6.0% the previous year. Alongside this consolidation, the island is embarking on an ambitious technology shift—a Start-Up Act, mass AI training, and a high-tech special economic zone in Côte d'Or—to reposition itself globally.**

## A Public Finance Turnaround

Revenue is projected at MUR 235.5 billion against expenditure of MUR 266.7 billion, bringing public debt to 85.5% of GDP by June 2027—on a downward trajectory after years of expansion. Unemployment stands at 5.7%, with inflation returning to 3.7%. Real GDP growth was 3.2% in 2025, with the 2026 forecast maintained at 3.0% despite global headwinds (ECB rates, trade tensions).

## Start-Up Act: A Ten-Year Tax Holiday

The standout measure for entrepreneurs: the new startup legislative framework offers a **ten-year income tax exemption** from the date of operational commencement. An EDB-operated startup accelerator completes the package, alongside simplified licensing procedures. The goal: making Mauritius the destination of choice for founders across the Indian Ocean region and Africa.

## AI-for-All and the Côte d'Or SEZ

The « AI-for-All » programme targets training **25,000 Mauritians** in artificial intelligence via a national learning platform. Tax credits are introduced for AI solution investments and patent filings.

The Côte d'Or Special Economic Zone allows 100% foreign ownership with preferential electricity tariffs, targeting AI and digital companies. The « 25by35 » project also aims to increase domestic food production by 2035, backed by 220 MW of additional solar capacity.

## Open Banking and an Enhanced Golden Visa

An Open Banking framework opens the door to fintech innovation, building on the National Fintech Strategy 2026-2030\. The Golden Visa is enhanced with a pathway to permanent residence—targeting entrepreneurs and diaspora investors.

## Why It Matters

Mauritius is consolidating its position as the Indian Ocean's financial and technology hub. This budget sends a clear signal to investors: fiscal discipline restored, combined with a bold digital ambition. For entrepreneurs in Réunion, Madagascar or the Comoros, the Mauritian Start-Up Act represents a concrete opportunity for regional structuring. Source: EDB Mauritius, KickOff Mauritius, PwC Mauritius, June-July 2026.