Promoters in the healthcare sector can expect to benefit from a pro-business ecosystem, supported by state-of-the-art infrastructure, a skilled pool of medical professionals, and a range of fiscal and non-fiscal incentives. These advantages, coupled with Mauritius' strategic access to the African market, have significantly boosted sector growth, with the health sector's GVA reaching Rs 26 million in 2023, contributing 4.6% to the nation's GDP as depicted in Figure 1 below.
Evolution of Gross Value Added in the Healthcare Sector
The number of private clinics in Mauritius has risen from 19 to 26 over the past five years, reflecting the country's growing status as a Centre of Excellence in the medical field. This growth caters both local and international patients, offering a wide range of services. The public health sector complements the range of services with five regional hospitals, two district general hospitals, six specialized hospitals, and six Ayurvedic clinics, collectively treating around 5 million cases annually.
Additionally, the SAJ New Flacq Teaching Hospital, inaugurated on 20th August 2024, adds 500 inpatient beds and 10 operating rooms (with four currently operational), along with 60 ICU beds. This state-of-the-art facility provides advanced medical services, including CT scans, MRIs, fluoroscopy, mammography, panoramic X-rays and a stroke rehabilitation area, among others. It also caters for a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and a dialysis center with 35 machines supporting 100 treatments daily.
Both the private and public sectors in Mauritius offer over 5,000 beds and employ 17,125 professionals, delivering services ranging from cosmetic surgery and cardiology to oncology, fertility treatments, dentistry, hair transplant showcasing the country's comprehensive healthcare capabilities.
Emerging Activities
This strategic approach aims to elevate Mauritius as a medical hub, offering advanced and specialized healthcare services to both local and international patients, while driving economic growth in this critical sector.
In line with the Government's agenda to promote the healthcare sector as a key economic pillar in Mauritius, the Economic Development Board (EDB) has focused its investment strategy on attracting investors in emerging and innovative medical fields. This strategy is aimed at fostering the development of multi-specialty clinics that address specific health needs, including:
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
- Stem Cells Treatment
- Nephrology
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
- Geriatric and Rehabilitation Centres
These specialized clinics are part of a broader vision to position Mauritius as a regional leader in healthcare, providing high-quality medical services for both local and international patients.
Telemedicine
Additionally, telemedicine and virtual medical services are gaining momentum, offering patients and healthcare providers new avenues for consultations and treatments. This technology-driven approach enables access to modern healthcare services across geographical boundaries, requiring only an internet connection and a smartphone. This initiative will expand healthcare access and contribute to the growth of the sector in Mauritius.
Laboratories
Mauritius is home to 80 laboratories, including the central government laboratory, which carry out a range of clinical tests spanning from biochemistry and bacteriology to molecular biology and DNA testing. Mauritius is also equipped with the adequate medical soft and hard infrastructure to enable laboratories to operate in an efficient manner.
Medical Tourism
Mauritius, renowned for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant tourism industry, has been actively positioning itself as a premier destination for medical tourism over the past five years. The island has invested in developing advanced medical infrastructure and establishing local and international specialty centers that offer cutting-edge technologies in cosmetic surgery, dentistry, and other specialized fields.
This strategic focus has enabled Mauritius to cater to a diverse range of medical needs, from cosmetic enhancements and dental care to drug rehabilitation, and wellness services. In 2023 approximately 4,000 medical tourists traveled to Mauritius, seeking treatments that highlight the country's growing reputation for high-quality medical services and state-of-the-art facilities
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Residential Care Home
With a growing ageing population, the need for specialized care and support services for the elderly is of prime importance. Residential care homes provide a crucial solution by offering a blend of quality healthcare and supportive living environments that can adapt to the diverse needs of senior citizens. These facilities not only ensure that elderly individuals receive consistent medical attention, personal care, and assistance with daily activities but also foster a sense of community and well-being. Government has put in place an attractive incentive framework to encourage the setting up of such facilities to cater for this category of population.
