Mauritius - Safety and Security EquipmentMauritius - Safety and Security

Overview

Public concern about safety and crime has risen in recent years, resulting in an increasing demand for security services.  With tourism being one of the major pillars of the Mauritian economy, the government seeks to safeguard Mauritius’ reputation as a safe tourist destination.  The government is installing closed circuit television (CCTV) surveillance systems in major tourist zones as well as in urban areas, and has plans to extend the network to other high-risk areas.  China, South Africa, Portugal, Thailand, Israel, and the United States were the main suppliers of security and safety equipment to Mauritius in 2017.
 

(total market size = (total local production + imports) - exports)
Data Source: i) Statistics Mauritius

Leading Sub-Sectors

• CCTV, integrated surveillance systems

• Alarm and intruder detection

• Access control systems

• Security locks and digital safe for hotel rooms

• Safety glass

• ID management

• Radar/navigational aids

• Scanning devices

• Forensic Laboratory equipment

• Security services

Opportunities

The government aims to reduce the crime rate from 4.8 per thousand population in 2016 to 4.5 by 2020 and to less than 4.0 in 2030.  The key security challenges faced in Mauritian society include proliferation of drugs, crime, frequent road accidents, illegal maritime activities in the exclusive economic zone, and natural disasters such as flash floods.  The government‘s 2018-19 budget provides substantial funding to equip and train police and other public safety departments.  The Police Department plans to install CCTV and audio recording systems in all police stations.  The Department plans to acquire 18 light armored personnel carriers to reinforce capability in emergency and disaster situations.  The Customs Department will procure hand-held non-intrusive scanning devices such as Buster contraband detectors, mini z scanners, wireless fiberscopes, and narcotics analyzers.  The Forensic Science Laboratory will be equipped with new equipment to enhance the quality and timeliness of reports.  The National Coast Guard will acquire a new multi-purpose offshore patrol vessel for coastal surveillance.
 
The government plans to implement a Safe City Project, with the installation of 4,000 intelligent surveillance cameras in major public areas and along main roads and motorways, pedestrian walkways, and principal traffic centers.  It will also acquire 4,500 trunking smart handsets, 500 trunking vehicle radios and an emergency response system for use by several governmental departments.   
 
Mauritius has seen remarkable growth in property development in recent years, following the offer of government fiscal incentives under the Property Development Scheme.  These projects have resulted in a number of luxury villas integrated with commercial, sports, and wellness facilities; hotel construction; office blocks; and several large shopping malls.  Moreover, several major smart city projects are currently being implemented by the private sector.  These projects will generate significant demand for security equipment and services, including CCTV and security alarm systems.  Additionally, with tourism being one of the major pillars of the Mauritian economy, the government requires all hotels to provide electronic security locks and in-room digital safes, as well as access control systems in secured areas.

Web Resources

The Embassy’s Economic/Commercial Section in Port Louis, Mauritius can be contacted via email at:  bheenicks@state.gov; +230 202-4464; Fax: +230 208-9534 or visit our website https://mu.usembassy.gov/