GIS – 24 July 2025: At a time of unparalleled economic distress and uncertainties, public and private partnership is important for achieving inclusive growth, driving productivity and mobilising resources for innovation. This was the gist of the speech of the Prime Minister, Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam, yesterday in Moka at the launching of the merger of the two private entities, ENL and Rogers to ER Group, in presence of Ministers, members of the Diplomatic Corps and other dignitaries.
In his keynote address Dr Ramgoolam commended the merging of the two most important private groups while highlighting their contribution over decades in shaping the socio-economic fabric of the country as market leaders in sectors ranging from agri-business, real estate to hospitality, travel, logistics to financial services, commerce, manufacturing and technology. This merger embodies the spirit of proactive adaptation by bringing together the diversified strength of Rogers and ENL for a more resilient, dynamic and future-ready enterprise with 7 400 employees across 30 countries, he said.
The Prime Minister reiterated the Government’s dedication to pursuing a transformative path for both the economy and society, geared towards building a new Mauritius founded on honesty, good governance, and integrity. He highlighted key initiatives such as the Government Programme 2025–2029, the establishment of a High-Level Steering Committee to oversee its implementation and the 2025–2026 Budget.
Speaking on propelling national progress, Dr Ramgoolam outlined the country’s new economic strategy anchored on five foundational pillars to drive sustainable and inclusive economic growth. The new strategy include emphasis on research, development and innovation; strategic repurposing of resources such as land and labour; sustaining growth through investment and technology, sports and structural transformation that delivers on social justice and consumer well-being; restoring macroeconomics fundamentals with a reduction of the debt-to-GDP ratio; lowering dependency on imports and increasing share of manufacturing to GDP.
Amidst a period of significant challenges and emerging opportunities, the Prime Minister noted that countries around the world are rethinking and reshaping their strategies. On that score, he emphasised the need for pension reform in Mauritius, highlighting that the current system is unsustainable and must be addressed to ensure long-term financial stability. He also spoke of upcoming trade negotiations with the President of the United States, Mr Donald Trump.
Dr Ramgoolam called for a strong partnership among the public and private sectors, academia, and local communities to build a prosperous and inclusive Mauritius, well-prepared to navigate the complexities of the years ahead. He also spoke of his vision to positioning Mauritius as a regional trade hub creating new investment space in the ocean and digital economy. The need to revive the Regional Cooperation Council and restructuring the Economic Development Board to foster growth and responsible resource management, investment in green infrastructure to safeguard the nation against calamities were also highlighted by the Prime Minister.
The Group Chief Executive Officer of the ER Group, Mr Gilbert Espitalier-Noël; the Chief Executive Officer, Mr Philippe Espitalier-Noël; and the Non-Executive Director, Mr Eric Espitalier-Noël reiterated their renewed commitment to making a meaningful contribution and continuing to invest in the socio-economic progress of Mauritius.
Government Information Service, Prime Minister’s Office, Level 6, New Government Centre, Port Louis, Mauritius. Email: gis@govmu.org Website: https://gis.govmu.org Mobile App: Search Gov
