RESTRICTED  
  
WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
9 March  2023 
(23-1750) Page: 1/37 
Trade Policy Review Body  
5 and 7 December 2022  Original: English/anglais/ inglés   
 
TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
SEYCHELLES  
MINUTES  OF THE MEETING  
Addendum  
Chairperson: H.E. Mr Ángel Villalobos Rodríguez  
This document contains the advance written questions  and additional questions by WTO 
Members , and replies provided by  Seychelles .1 
 
 
Organe d'examen des politiques commerciales  
5 et 7 décembre 2022  
EXAMEN DES POLITIQUES COMMERCIALES  
SEYCHELLES  
COMPTE RENDU DE LA RÉUNION  
Addendum  
Présiden: S.E.  Mr Ángel Villalobos Rodríguez  
Le présent document contient les questions écrites communiquées à l'avance par les Membres 
de l'OMC, leurs questions additionnelles, et les réponses  fournies par  Seychelles .1 
 
 
Órgano de Examen de las Políticas Comerciales  
5 y 7  de diciembre de 2022  
EXAMEN DE LAS POLÍTICAS COMERCIALES  
SEYCHELLES  
ACTA DE LA REUNIÓN  
Addendum  
Presidente: Excmo.  Sr Ángel Villalobos Rodríguez  
En el presente documento figuran las preguntas presentadas anticipadamente por escrito  y las 
preguntas adicionales de los Miembros de la OMC,  así como las respues tas facilitadas por  Seychelles .1 
  
 
1 In English only ./En anglais seulement./En inglés solamente.  WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
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Contents  
1  SINGAPORE  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................  3 
2  CHINA  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........................  7 
3  CANADA  ................................ ................................ ................................ ......................  10 
4  THE UNITED STAT ES ................................ ................................ ................................ ... 15 
5  EUROPEAN UNION  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 23 
6  JAPAN  ................................ ................................ ................................ .........................  37 
  WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
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1  SINGAPORE  
PART I: QUESTIONS REGARDING THE SECRET ARIAT REPORT  
 
4.1.4.1 Blue Economy  
Page 83 (Para 4.7)  
 
Question 1 
 
The WTO Secretariat report notes that "In October 2018, Seychelles issued the world's first sovereign 
blue bond, worth USD 15 million with guarantees from the World Bank and the Global Environment 
Facility, to attract private investment and finance a transition to sustainable fisheries". Could 
Seychelles share about the progress of the blue bond in supporting Seychelles' blue economy?  
 
Reply  
 
The tranches of the blue bond proceeds  disbursed to the Development Bank of Seychelles (DBS) to 
date total USD  9 million, with the final tranche of USD  3 million to be disbursed in June 2023. The DBS 
has approved one loan of USD  3 million in October of 2022, pending signing of credit agreement . 
 
The tranches of the blue bond proceeds disbursed to the Seychelles Conservation Climate Adaptation 
Trust (SeyCCAT) to date total USD  2.5 m with the final tranche of USD  0.5 m to be disbursed in January 
of 2023. SeyCCAT has approved more than 30 projects  to date, but just under USD  1 million has not 
yet been allocated in grants and is rolling over.  
 
 
4.4.4 Tourism  
Page 100 (Para 4.166)  
 
Question 2 
 
The WTO Secretariat Report notes that "The tourism strategy "Destination 2023" provides the roadmap 
for the sector's growth up to 2023 and beyond with key aims like increasing yields per visitor, with 
greater focus on offering experiences that are more aut hentic by adapting culture -based tourism -to-
tourism packages; market and product diversification to improve the industry's resilience in the face 
of external threats; raising the visibility of Seychelles on the international market; and upskilling and 
training the local labour force to meet the needs of the sector."  
 
What are the key policies and initiatives which will be launched under "Destination 2023" and what are 
some of the challenges which Seychelles foresee in achieving its targets under "Destinati on 2023"?  
 
Reply  
As part of its efforts to increasing yields per visitor, the Tourism Department is aiming to apply the 
concept of high -value low impact tourism. As such, the Department has found the need to diversify 
the Tourism product to bring in a var iety of experiences to the visitors. This includes focusing on 
offering cultural -based activities which are currently being identified by the Department through a 
cultural audit. It sets out to detect, categorise and improve on the different cultural exper iences on 
offer per district. Further to the above form of product diversification, the Department has also 
established a working group of relevant stakeholders as a coordinated approach to identifying areas of 
diversification, developing relevant policies /guidelines to create an enabling environment in order to 
access these potential investments. The discussions will assist in shifting the Seychelles away from its 
usual 'Sun, Sand and Sea' products and potentially creating greater visibility through other 
experiences.   
Based on the Carrying Capacity Studies completed in 2021, the Tourism Department is also planning 
on implementing its recommendations particularly for the La Digue Island. As part of its proposals, the 
Department must develop two essential s tudies; the Hotel Development Strategic Plan and the Visitor 
Use Management Plan. The former will be a blueprint for accommodation establishments on the island 
and will set the target for future bed development on La Digue taking into consideration the num ber 
of visitors that is needed on the island. Whilst the latter will provide an understanding of the visitor 
flow and minimise visitor congestion in tourism hotspots from which strategies/policies will be derived 
to limit or distribute visitation across ti mings and locations.   WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
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Efforts have also been directed towards the tourism labour force. The 'Lospitalite – Lafyerte Sesel' 
Campaign has included training of front liners, introduction of tourism clubs in schools, consultations 
of tourism stakeholders and the introduction of the service excellence programme which assesses 
businesses in terms of their service delivery and recognise workers who provide quality hospitable 
service. Moreover, the Tourism Department is working towards a platform that will provide  details of 
tourism employment data (i.e. qualifications, gender, age etc.) that will assist in analysing the labour 
supply and utilising it to develop strategies that will handle gaps and help in managing and improving 
it.  
The Tourism Department has been  met with several obstacles. Firstly, the studies to be commissioned 
have been delayed by the procurement process and are dedicated to the smallest out of the three 
principal islands. As such, the findings will most likely be unique to the island as oppose d to the entire 
nation. Secondly, there is often a lack of willingness from stakeholders thereby impeding on the overall 
objective. Additionally, funding is also a factor that restricts some of the above projects. The Tourism 
Department has a limited budge t and often requires other means of funding to facilitate studies and 
project implementation. Furthermore, the Department does not have a dedicated research section to 
derive enough data as evidence for policies which creates heavy reliance on the National  Bureau of 
Statistics, who have their own resource limitations. Finally, the Tourism Industry is vulnerable to 
external factors such as the pandemic and wars which create fluctuations in trends creating greater 
difficulty in deriving confident decisions an d policies.   
 
5 Appendix Tables  
Page 110 (Table A2.3) Consolidated List of Restricted activities to Foreign Investments  
 
Question 3 
 
The WTO report, under Table A2.3 notes that the activity "Land surveyor" is listed as "Not allowed" 
although allied profe ssionals such as engineers and architects are not listed on the same list. We would 
like to seek clarification on the reasons for the differences.  
 
Reply  
 
Engineering and architectural services are not feature in the reserved list due to the fact that it has 
been observed that in Seychelles there is demand for these activities which the local professionals may 
not be able to satisfy, and this then features in our SI148 in the open list, consistent with the Republic 
of Seychelles' WTO schedules of specific commitments. Also, in the case of land surveyors, it is reserved 
for Seychellois as it is seen as an activity where context -specific knowledge is necessary and hence 
reserved.   
 
PART II:  QUESTIONS REGARDING THE GOVERNMENT REPORT  
 
3.5 Agriculture Sector  
Page 8 (Para 3.21)  
 
Question 4 
 
The Government Report states that "Seychelles' agricultural sector is characterized by subsistence 
production and that it is a net food importer. The government has intervened to address shipping and 
transportation challenges and guaranteeing food nutrition and safety". Based on Table 3.2, there has 
been an increase in subsidies provided between 2020 to 2021. Besides providing subsidies to support 
the national vision of enhancing food security and self -sustainability, what are some of the other 
initiatives Seychelles has implemented to ensure food security and safety?  
 
Reply  
 
The agricultural sector presently benefits from a panoply of institutional support which comprises of 
incentives in the form of s ubsidies, principally in the livestock sub -sector, VAT tax concessions on the 
importation of capital equipment and imported and local agricultural inputs, low interest rate (2.5%) 
for loan under the Agricultural Development Fund (ADF) scheme, and rental of  agricultural land at only 
0.32/sqm/year.  
 
 WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
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3.6 Energy Sector  
Page 10 (3.30)  
 
Question 5 
 
The Government report states that "Seychelles total energy generation is 95% from fuel oil and 5% 
from renewable energy sources including the 6 MW Port Victoria wind farm, 6 MW utility -scale PV plant 
on Ile Romainville and around 5.75 MW of distributed rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) systems." Does 
Seychelles have any plans to target net zero in the future and how does Seychelles plan to further 
diversify its energy so urces?  
 
Reply  
 
Yes, under the updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) as part of its contributions under 
the Paris Agreement.  
 
Additionally, Seychelles is undertaking an Integrated Resource Plan that will guide the development of 
the electricity  sector with the following main objectives:  
 
(a) ensuring a reliable and diversified supply of electricity to existing and new customers,  
(b) sustainable use of national resources with careful consideration of the environment, climate 
resilience, and future generation requirements,  
(c) wider deployment of demand side measures to closer match electricity supply and demand 
patterns;  
(d) meeting policy t argets, for example those relating to the affordability of electricity or wider 
integration of renewables and improvement of private sector involvement in the sector, and  
(e) meeting the country's climate commitments to lower its Green House Gas emissions by 26% 
by 2030 as outlined in the updated NDC.  
 
5.1 Economic Policies  
Page 11 (5.2)  
 
Question 6 
 
The Government report states that "Seychelles' Transformative Economic Agenda focuses on priority 
areas including tourism, agriculture, fisheries and blue economy , digital economy, and financial sectors 
but it faces some structural challenges and the challenge of climate change". We would like to enquire 
what are the structural challenges faced by Seychelles particularly in the tourism, blue economy, digital 
econom y, financial sectors.  
 
Reply  
 
Structural challenges can be seen as an all -encompassing term, highlighting key areas with 
longstanding – and in some instances generational – challenges that should they not be addressed – 
or impacts moderated – will not only affect the implementation of the Transformative Economic Agenda 
(TEA) but also impact long run commitments linked with the SDGs.  
 
The term in itself is one that usually has cross -cutting policy impacts, has to be considered at an 
intertemporal level a nd considerate of impact on other socio -economic segments. As an example, the 
tourism sector growth is expected to grow beyond record 2019 levels with further investments 
expected. Should the issue of employment within the sector not be addressed, it would  imply that 
despite job creation, labour conditions would imply that structural challenges linked to this area will 
only be exacerbated.  
 
Areas that cover this term include but are not limited to;  
 
(i) Labour and Manpower Challenges  
 
Seychelles has a sizeable informal sector and is heavily reliant for imported labour in key sectors. In 
vocational jobs, weak wage growth and poor planning in matching current education output versus 
demand in vocational fields –more specifically in the short run - has impacted you th unemployment 
and has been proven to be key indicator of poverty. Near perfect imported labour substitution implies 
that the country has access to near limitless pool of imported labour. Whilst localisation policies may 
assist in alleviating the issue, p erceived low productivity and skillset amongst Seychellois by employers 
remains a challenge. In academic fields, substantial gaps exist in key areas which, should they not be WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
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addressed, will impact the implementation of the TEA. In the long run, the approp riate education model 
to address said gaps are needed. With relevance to the TEA, intertemporal labour gaps need to be 
known to ensure optimal local benefits.  
 
(ii) Technological Infrastructure  
 
It is generally accepted that whilst significant gains have been made within the local IT infrastructure, 
which has also been a key driver of growth following the operationalisation of Seychelles Eastern 
African System (SEAS) submarine cable, the economy is yet to gain from the full benefits of 
aforementioned infra structure. Mindful of the labour deficiencies in the sector, the government has 
taken the necessary steps to address deficiencies under the Digital Economy Agenda.  This includes 
other measures relating to affordability, education policies, digitization of  key government services and 
capacity building within government amongst others.  
 
(iii) Allocation of land resources and necessary infrastructures  
 
The TEA requires the use of land and other natural resources to be aligned with existing stock, mindful 
of long r un green and socio -economic policies. As things stand, more work is needed to ensure that 
land and required infrastructures are established. This is a pertinent exercise given the limited land 
space available and overlapping land use policies for sectors w ithin the TEA. With regards to 
infrastructure, resource intensity requires further mapping mindful of limited resources when it comes 
to matters relating to energy consumption, sewerage and water usage. The latter needs to be mindful 
of climate change meas ures which in itself adds another dimension to mapping the TEA given long run 
considerations  
 
(iv) Others  
 
As previously stated, the cross -cutting/interrelated nature of the structural challenges imply that they 
cannot be seen independent of one another. The f ollowing provides a list of structural challenges 
identified but not further elaborated on. Whilst not explicitly linked to trade policies, considerations 
must be taken given the country's heavy reliance on imports and low resource base, and how trade 
may be impacted should it be seen as a possible avenue for policy interventions.  
 
- Maintaining existing trade frequency given lowering trade exports mindful of resource 
constraints (fisheries)  
- Energy Policy and Infrastructure needs  
- Food security  
- Housing chall enges, property prices and linkages to poverty  
- Health policies given levels of lifestyle -linked diseases and sustainability of current health 
model  
  WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
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2  CHINA  
TRADE POLICY REVIEW OF SEYCHELLES  
WRITTEN QUESTIONS FROM CHINA  
PART I: QUESTIONS REGARDING THE SECRE TARIAT REPORT  
 
Page 16, Para. 1.13.  
"For 2022, the IMF estimates a reduction of the average inflation rate to 5.6%, while the authorities' 
forecast is 4.1%, driven mainly by the elevated international commodity and fuel prices, although the 
stronger SCR is expected to dampen their impact. " 
 
Question  1 
 
The Seychelles authorities and the IMF provided very different estimations of the 2022 inflation rate in 
Seychelles. What are the reasons for a such discrepancy? The data or the method? Is any adjustment 
expected in Seychelles ' monetary policy in the near future?  
 
Reply  
 
As compared to the annual average inflation rate of 9.8 per cent in December 2021, a moderation in 
inflationary pressures was anticipated for 2022 which is reflected in bot h forecasts.  The differences in 
the forecasts can be attributed to varying assumptions such as the extent of the pass through from 
international prices to the domestic prices of goods and services as well as the value of the domestic 
currency against the major traded currencies.   
As indicated in the latest IMF press release 2with the consolidated view from the IMF staff team and 
the authorities:  
 "Inflation moderated to 2.8 percent (year -on-year) at end -August and is projected to average 3.0 
percent in 2022, against 9.8 percent in 2021. The lagged effect of appreciation of the rupee in 2021 
helped absorb the pressures that emanated from higher international prices in 2022. Inflation is 
projected to average 4.5 percent in 2023 ." 
As customary, t he monetary policy stance will be contingent on external and domestic factors. An 
accommodative monetary policy stance was maintained throughout 2022 to continue supporting the 
domestic economy which was facing notable external challenges caused by supply and demand 
imbalances. These were exacerbated by the conflict in Ukraine and the associated geopolitical tensions. 
The monetary policy stance pronouncement for the first quarter of 2023 will be in December 2022.   
 
Page 73, Para. 4.13.  
 
"The CAADP aims at achieving 50% self -sufficiency in agricultural products, notably poultry and 
pork.21 According to the authorities, the ultimate goal of the CAADP in Seychelles is to support the 
development and implementation of a coherent and comprehensive agricultural pr ogramme covering 
all major subsectors (crops, livestock, fisheries, and forestry) and to support the integration of 
agriculture into other economic activities. " 
 
Question  2 
 
Will the government launch any supporting agricultural development plans? If so, h ow is the progress?  
 
Reply  
 
Seychelles, through the Department of Agriculture, has launched a number of supporting agricultural 
development plans either in terms of strategies or policies as listed below:  
Seychelles is part of the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Program 
(CAADP:  2018 -2022)3, which aims to promote growth in Seychelles' agricultural sector on the basis 
of five pillars: protection and sustainable use of agricultural land and infrastructure; agricultural 
research, irrigation, and extension; sustainable fisheries development; mar keting and trade of 
agricultural produce; and food and nutrition security. Under the CAADP, the Seychelles National 
Agriculture Investment Plan (SNAIP) was launched as a framework that seeks to harmonize, 
consolidate, and accelerate the implementation of t he country's agriculture and food security and 
nutrition related policies and strategies during 2015 20. The SNAIP defines agricultural (including 
forestry, crops, livestock, and fisheries) priorities, goals, and outcomes with the aim of providing 
 
2 https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2022/10/04/pr22333 -imf-staff-reaches -staff-level-agreement -on-
the-third-review -under -the-eff-with-seychelles   
3 https://au.int/en/articles/comprehensive -african -agricultural -development -programme   WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
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desired volumes of production and ensuring food security. The SNAIP is still being applied. The CAADP 
has help to specifically addresses the following areas:   
 
• The increased production of broiler meat, eggs, pork and 15 specific vegetables  
• A refined financing mech anism through the Development Bank of Seychelles  
• Specific marketing arrangements with Seychelles Trading Company and Import restrictions  
• Improved staffing arrangements in the implementing agencies  
• Upgrading of the Seychelles Institute of Agriculture and H orticulture (SIAH)  
• Surveillance and on farm security  
 
The Seychelles National Agricultural Investment Plan (SNAIP: 2015 -2020 ) emphasizes the 
following principles: diversifying food production to improve nutrition at household level; managing 
risks to ensur e food stability at national level; promoting agro processing for value addition and import 
substitution; building capacities in various public and private institutions involved in the 
implementation of the SNAIP programs; and promoting good land husbandry  practices for soil 
conservation and improving soil fertility as well as climate smart agriculture. In addition, the SNAIP 
aims to: (i) encourage and facilitate the involvement of private sector, farmer organizations, and civil 
society in its implementatio n; (ii) provide a single comprehensive program and budget framework; and 
(iii) include a formalized process for donor coordination and harmonization of management systems 
and procedures.  
The SNAIP is a programme based investment framework. It has five area s and their associated 
components, while mainstreaming of cross cutting issues as follows:  
 
• Protection and Sustainable use of Agricultural Land and Water  
• Productivity, Commercialization and Diversification of Crops and Livestock  
• Sustainable Fisheries Management and Aquaculture Development  
• Food Security and Nutrition  
• Human and Institutional Capacity Development  
 
The SNAIP has helped to emphasize the development in the following core principles:  
 
▪ Diversifying food production to improve nutritio n at household level.  
▪ Managing risks to ensure food stability at national level;  
▪ Promoting agro -processing for value addition and import substitution;  
▪ Building capacities in various public and private institutions involved in the 
implementation of the SNAIP programs;  
▪ Promoting good land husbandry practices for soil conservation and 
improving soil fertility as well as climate smart agriculture, and  
▪ Mainst reaming gender, HIV and AIDS in the SNAIP programs.  
 
It has also helped in the development of other components as follows:   
 
▪ designed to encourage and facilitate the involvement of private sector, 
farmer organizations and civil society in its implementatio n. 
▪ provides a single comprehensive program and budget framework;  
▪ formalized process for donor coordination and harmonization of 
management systems and procedures.  
 
The National Food and Nutrition Security Policy (NFNSP: 2013 -2023)  was developed in 2013 
to ensure effective, efficient food security through increased sustainable agricultural production and to 
strengthen and align institutional capacity to respond to changes/shocks in the global food security 
situation. It elevated the issue of food security an d nutrition with the participation of other Ministries. 
The NFNSP has elaborated Seychelles' food basket and staple food diet on the basis of roots and tubers 
(sweet potatoes, cassava), vegetables, pulses (dried beans, mostly imported), fruits, livestock 
products, and fish. This has enables Seychelles Government to provide leadership with regard to the 
following strategic areas:   
 
• Ensuring program and investment interventions that are consistent and supportive of short 
and long term development and growth priorities, goals and objectives.  
• Ensuring coordination, coherence and comprehensiveness in strategies and programs on food 
and nutritional security.  
• Strengthening resilience and capability within Seychelles ' internal systems to anticipate and 
respond to internal and external shocks and changes in the food systems, including but 
not limited to weather and climate change extremes, price volatility and issues related to 
imports.  WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
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• Strengthening accountability in food and nutrition security support and facilitation systems 
including inclusive decision making and reinforcement of collective responsibility among 
the various players and stakeholders.  
 
 
PART II: QUESTIONS REGARDING THE GOVERNMENT REPORT  
 
Page 16, Para. 8.28.  
 
"With the aim of enhancing Seychelles' competition and consumer protection framework, the FTA 2022 
replaced the Board of Commissioners and the Appeals Tribunal with the Fair Trading Tribunal. This 
independent and impartial tribunal is dedicate d to hearing consumer protection and competition cases, 
merger applications and other applications brought before it by the Commission. " 
 
Question  3 
 
Please explain the impact of the Fair Trading Law on the country 's international trade.  
 
Reply  
 
The Fair Trading Act 2022 provides for the regulation of anti -competitive practices and consumer 
protection. This is a modernized piece of legislation which is in line with international best practice, 
and which is designed to enhance the free and fair flo w of goods and services within the market.  
 
Competition law gives enterprises who wish to invest in the country the equitable platform to carry out 
business, irrespective of their size or nationality. This gives an added level of certainty and confidence 
to investors in Seychelles.  
 
Consumer safety in respect to goods supplied to consumers is also catered for through commercial 
activities, and to ensure that consumer welfare is always safeguarded.  
 
Furthermore, the following subsections of the Fair Trading  Act 2022 reinforce the abovementioned 
points:  
 
• Subsection (1) states that  This Act, in relation to competition, shall apply to all economic 
activity in, or having an effect in Seychelles,  
- Therefore, if an economic activity has an effect in Seychelles then the Act will apply.  
 
• Subsection (6) states that This Act applies to a ma tter, irrespective of whether the supplier — 
(a) resides or has its principal office in or outside Seychelles . 
 
  WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
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3  CANADA  
(WT/TPR/S/433)  
 
Page 10, Paragraph 29:  
 
It is noted that Seychelles' tourism sector relies on environmental policies to market itself as a 
"zero-carbon footprint destination".  
 
Question 1  
 
Does Seychelles conduct environmental impact assessments of its trade in services agreements like 
the SADC Protocol on Trade in Services or AfCFTA? If so, how does this inform Seychelles' negot iating 
position?  
 
Reply  
 
To date, no environmental impact assessment has been conducted specifically for the trade in 
services trade agreements.  
 
However, Seychelles ' negotiating positions are informed through national consultations with 
the concerned stak eholders which may factor in any potential impacts put forward.  
 
Page 28, Paragraph 2.27 : 
 
The report states: "With a view to establishing a common market, COMESA members are also seeking 
to gradually liberalize trade in services and achieve the free movem ent of labour and capital among its 
members."  
 
Question 2 
 
Does Seychelles have an interest in facilitating the temporary entry of business persons  into its borders, 
in the context of COMESA or other regional or bilateral partnerships?  
 
Reply  
 
Yes. 
 
Question 3 
 
Has there been any progress under COMESA negotiations to facilitate the temporary entry of business 
persons between members?  
 
Reply  
 
Any economic activities not listed in First Schedule and Second Schedule of the Seychelles ' 
Statutory Instrument (S.I). 76 of 2022 Seychelles Investment (Economic Activities) Regulations, 2022, 
the Reserved Economic Activity Policy or any other investment regu lation shall be subjected to the 
Economic Needs Test.  
 
Question 4 
 
What barriers currently exist to the temporary entry of foreign professionals into Seychelles according 
to its domestic regime (e.g., does Seychelles maintain Economic Needs Testing, quotas , knowledge 
transfer requirements, etc.)?  
 
Reply  
 
Activities for which Seychelles did not take commitment under its WTO Schedules of Specific 
Commitment are subject to the Economic Needs Test as per Seychelles ' Statutory Instrument (S.I). 
76 of 2022 SEYCHE LLES INVESTMENT ACT (Act 31 of 2010) Seychelles Investment (Economic 
Activities) Regulations, 2022 .  
 WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
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Page 62, paragraph 3.116 and footnote 138 : 
 
It is noted that the Seychelles's STC  sells primarily 14 essential commodities at subsidized prices in 
the domestic market to ensure their availability and affordability [138].  
 
Footnote 138 suggest that in addition to the STC, two other public enterprises engage in food trading 
activities, namely the Island Development Company (IDC) and L'Union Estate Company Ltd. The latter 
is mainly engaged in the cultivation of vegetables and fruits and their sale in the domestic market, 
while the IDC is a food exporter, notably of coconut oil.  
 
Question 5 
 
What role does the Island Development Company (IDC), a subsidiary of the Green Tree Investment 
Company, have in the export of coconut products and food products in general?  
 
Reply  
 
The IDC 's primary role is in the development of the outer islands of Sey chelles. It is involved in 
producing vegetables for domestic consumption, and coconut oil for both the domestic and export 
market.  
 
Page 67, paragraph 3.136  
 
Per the Secretariat report, IP legislation is currently being reviewed and the new law is expect ed to be 
adopted in the near future.  
 
Question 6 
 
Can Seychelles clarify which IP legislation is being reviewed and what new aspects of Seychelles IP 
legislation is anticipated?  
 
Reply  
 
All existing IP laws and regulations are currently being reviewed that is:  
 
A. Industrial Property Act  
 
i. Industrial Property (Geographical Indications and Appellations of Origins) Regulations  
ii. Industrial Property (Marks) Regulations  
iii. Industrial Property (Layout Designs) Regulations  
iv. Industrial Property (Industrial Designs) Regulations  
v. International registration of Marks Regulations  
vi. National Registration of Patents and Utility Models Regulation  
vii. Regional Registration of Patents, Industrial Designs and Utility Models Regulations (New)  
viii. International Registr ation of Patents Regulations  
 
B. Copyright Act  
 
i. Copyright Regulations (inclusive of Collective Management of copyright and neighbouring 
rights)  
 
C. Plant Variety Protection  
 
 
i. Plant Variety Protection Bill (New)  
These are expected to be completed by the end of 2 023. 
 
Page 68, paragraph 3.139  
 
The Secretariat Report indicates that the Seychelles has a National IP Committee that coordinates the 
work on IP related matters among all stakeholders. The Trade Department under the MFNPT acts as 
the Secretariat to the National IP Committee and is the WT O Enquiry Point for all IP issues.  
 WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
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Question 7 
 
Can the Seychelles provide any more information on what kind of work falls under the National IP 
Committee's purview?  
 
Reply  
 
Roles and Functions of the IP Committee  
Main functions  
• Provide technical guidance on IP activities relating to copyright, industrial property rights 
and other IPRs at the national level.  
• Serve as a coordination mechanism to facilitate the ex change of information among the 
different stakeholders at national lev el. 
• Provide technical guidance and advice to the competent authorities on the effective 
implementation of TRIPS agreements.  
Capacity building  
• Discuss the requirements of the country in the areas of IP and the policies that will need 
to be put in place to ensure that the local community benefits from their required IP rights.  
• Identify, facilitate, monitor and assess the implementation of capacity building activities 
including training on IP matters.  
Policy and strategic roles  
• Advise and strategize on polici es relating to IPR and oversee its implementation at national 
level.  
• Provide advice and guidance on review of policies and legislation related to IP.  
• Identify, articulate and advocate IP issues which are of importance to the country.  
• Coordinate prior consultations with stakeholders in preparation of country positions with 
regards to regional and international matters related to IP.  
• Discuss the implementation of provisions of current international agreements Seychelles is 
party to and any future agreeme nts Seychelles envisages to join.  
Sensitisation roles  
• Coordinate and facilitate sensitisation campaigns to governmental institutions, private 
sector, civil society and the general public.  
• Facilitate the provision of relevant information to stakeholders, in cluding entrepreneurs 
and contribute to raising awareness on IP matters.  
 
 
Question 8 
 
How does the Committee engage with stakeholders?  
 
Reply  
 
The Committee holds meetings convened by the Chairperson on a quarterly basis. The Chairperson 
informs the Secretariat of any other ad -hoc meetings that are necessary, as and when the need arises. 
The quorum for a formal meeting should be of a simple majority (50%+1) and all decisions are to be 
taken by consensus. Other engagement includes workshops, trainings and sensitization initiatives.  
 
Page 119, Table A3.6  
 
Per the Secretariat report, Table A3.6 provides statistics on IP registrations.  
 
Question 9 
 
Would Seychelles be able to clarify which registrations are from foreign and domestic applicants?  WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
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 Reply  
 
 
 
QUESTIONS REGARDING THE GOVERNMENT REPORT (WT/TPR/G/433)  
 
Page 9, paragraph 10:       
  
Canada notes that the Seychelles is currently revising its institutional, policy and legislative frameworks 
in the energy sector.  
  
Question 10 
 
How is the Government of Seychelles managing the impact of recent fossil fuel cost increases on its 
economy given its dependency on imported oil for 95% of electricity production?  
 
Reply  
 
The cost is being passed on to consumers through quarterly electricity tariff adjustment based on fuel 
cost movement. The latter is regulated by the Seychelles Energy Commission.   
 
How will these cost increases impact the review by your government of its institutional, policy and 
legislative frameworks in the energy sector?  
 
Reply  
 
The review 's main objective is to create an enabling environment that will accelerate the deployment 
of Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency technologies which will contribute  to managing the impact 
of fuel cost.  
  
Question 11 
 
How will the Government of Seychelles integrate women and girls into the modernization of its energy 
sector currently underway?  
 
IP Rights Registration 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Trademarks
Residents: 121 13 49 14 115 90 22
Non-residents: 13 103 718 472 832 560 451
Copyrights
Residents: 34 31 22 8 36 77
Non-residents: 0 0 0 0 2 0
Patents
Residents: 0 0 0 0 0 2 1
Non-residents: 9 13 49 31 21 30 28
Industrial designs
Residents: 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Non-residents: 0 1 5 8 6 0 1
Utility models
Residents: 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Non-residents: 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Layout-designs and integrated circuits
Residents: 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Non-residents: 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Geographical indications
Residents: 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Non-residents: 0 0 0 0 0 0 0WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
- 14 - 
 
Reply  
 
There are a number of education and awareness programs to encourage women and girls to take up 
more work/activities wit hin the energy sector which is currently ongoing.  
 
Page 16, paragraph 8.32:  
It is noted that Seychelles has been working on a draft licensing regulation for Postal and Courier 
Services.  
 
Question 12 
 
More broadly, does Seychelles accept licensing, qualif ication or certification applications by electronic 
means? If so, is Seychelles attempting to ensure such language is reflected in their future FTAs?  
 
Reply  
 
The draft Licensing Regulation is currently on hold, pending recruitment of relevant experts in th e field. 
The necessary is expected to be done before the end of 2023.  
 
Seychelles will take on board and address the recommendation for the inclusion of electronic licenses, 
qualification or certifications in future negotiations and the drafting of the ne w regulations.  
 
Page 19, paragraph 9.11:  
 
The Government Report states that Seychelles has commenced a review of its Public Procurement 
Act 2008 and initiated stakeholder consultations and that it is envisaged that this review would aid 
Seychelles with preparations for its eventual accession to the GPA.  
 
Question 13 
 
Does Seychelles have a timeline for completion of the review and consultations with respect to its 
accession to the GPA?  
 
Reply  
 
Currently, the Seychelles does not have a timeline due to ongoing internal discussions which are yet 
to be finalised.  
 
Question 14 
 
Is the review of the Public Procurement Act 2008 mentioned h ere in paragraph 9.11, the same review 
mentioned on page 15, paragraph 8.24.a), which is envisaged to be completed by mid -fourth quarter 
of 2023?  
 
Reply  
 
No, paragraph 9.11 is referring to the review for accession to the GPA, whereas paragraph 8.24 (a) 
refers to reforms on the current procurement regime with the aim of introducing a more strategic 
approach to Public Procurement and standardisation of how Public Entities conduct Public Procurement.  WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
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4  THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA  
Part I. Questions based on the Secretariat Report (WT/TPR/S/432)  
 
Page 14, Table 1.1 : This table indicates that the real GDP growth rate in 2021 was 2.6%, while the 
report by the Government of the Seychelles (Chart 2.1 on p. 5) indicates that real GDP growth in 2021 
was 7.9% – a significant difference. A note at the bottom of Table 1.1 (p. 15) states: "GDP data in 
2021 derived from the IMF's World Economic Outlook (April 2022) due to no data availability from the 
CBS and National Bureau of Statistics (as of 19 May 2022)."   
Question 1 
• Does the Government of the Seychelles have access to more recent data than the 
Secretariat?  
 
Reply  
 
The latest data available in regard to GDP amongst other selected economic indicators are available in 
the official 2023 Budget Strategy Outlook document that was published earlier this month and is 
available on the Ministry of Finance, National Planning and Trade’s website.  
As in the 2023 Budget Strategy Outlook document, for the year 2022, GDP growth is projected at 7.2 
per cent which is higher t han the previous estimates and in line with a stronger 2021 recovery. In 
2021, real GDP growth is estimated at 6.1 per cent reflecting a marked improvement over the 9.9 per 
cent contraction in the pandemic year 2020 . 
Question 2 
 
• Is there another possible explanation for the different values? It would be useful to 
harmonize the data.  
•  
Reply  
 
The data provided by the Ministry of Finance of Seychelles (Chart 2.1 on p.5) of 7.9% in 2021 is the 
official provisional estimate for real GDP that is publish ed in all of the official documents.  
The Government of Seychelles will attempt to harmonise and reconcile its future data.  
Page 26, paragraph 2.18 : The Secretariat's Report mentions that Seychelles has several outstanding 
notifications. (e.g. agriculture,  trade facilitation, and regional trade agreements)  
Question  3 
 
• When does Seychelles intend to submit these outstanding notifications to the WTO?  
 
Reply  
 
Seychelles will attempt to send all agricultural notifications before the end of 2023.  
Seychelles does not have any outstanding notifications pertaining to regional trade agreements.  
In regard to trade facilitation, Seychelles was undergoing a revamping o f its Trade Portal to ensure 
that publication of all trade related measures were in one place. Seychelles will attempt to complete 
all publications and notifications by mid -2023.  
Page 37, paragraph 3.8 : The Secretariat's Report states that Seychelles has committed to 
implementing a single window or authorized operators programme by December 2023 upon receipt of 
capacity -building support.  
Question  4 
 
• Please explain what steps Seychelles has already taken to begin the implementation of a 
single window or authorized operators programme, and what steps Seychelles will take in the 
interim to ensure it meets the December 2023 deadline.  
 WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
- 16 - 
 
Reply  
 
Seychelles has sought the assistance of EU through the 11th Economic Development Fund Programme 
to improve its Customs Management System (ASYCUDA World) with a view of moving towards a single 
window system  which is scheduled for completion by the 2nd Quarter of 2024. The consultants 
contracted under this programme  are currently in Seychelles, working on the improvement of the 
system.  
Regarding the authorized operators programme, Seychelles has sought assistance from the COMESA 
in view of having a structure in place by December 2023.  
Page 37, paragraph 3.11 : Accordi ng to the Secretariat's Report, Seychelles customs valuation 
procedures are described in the Customs Management Regulations (2014) and are based on the WTO 
Customs Valuation Agreement. According to the WTO Customs Valuation Agreement and WTO 
Committee on C ustoms Valuation decision, Seychelles must notify its national customs valuation 
legislation and responses to a standard set of fifteen questions, known as the Checklist of Issues, to 
the WTO Committee on Customs Valuation.  
 
Question  5 
 
• Will Seychelles submit these notifications before the Spring WTO Committee on Customs 
Valuation meeting?  
 
Reply  
 
Seychelles will endeavor to submit these notifications before the stipulated deadline.  
Page 45, paragraph 3.43 : The Secretariat's Report states that "Seychelles applies a sugar tax of 
SCR 4 per liter to imported and locally produced sugar -sweetened drinks, except for local fresh fruit 
drinks without additives, and plain milk. The tax covers 189 tariff lines (or 3.2  percent of the total 
number of lines) including alcoholic beverages and flavored milk and was introduced in April 2019 
based on health considerations."  
Question  6 
 
• Please clarify why imports do not receive the same exemption from the sugar tax as plain 
milk.  
 
Reply  
 
The exemptions from sugar tax applies to both imports and locally produced plain milk which, in most 
cases, does not exceed the limit set for applicatio n of the tax.  
A SCR 4 tax applies when sugar content is >5 g sugar/100 ml for all drinks (including alcohol -containing 
ones, if an alcohol drink has more than 5 g/100 ml added sugar).  
In short, tax will not apply for unflavored milk as content of sugar ( galactose) in milk is ~4.6 g/100 
ml, i.e. < 5g (this was the main rationale to set the limit at 5 g). However, tax would apply to milk 
drinks when sugar has been added (e.g. chocolate milk drinks, etc). The food content label will indicate 
the total amount  of carbohydrate in a milk beverage: tax is applied if total carbohydrate (= sugar in 
this case) is >5 g/100 ml, and not applied if <5 g/100 ml. Same applies for local and imported products.  
Question  7 
 
• Please advise when the Seychelles will submit a notif ication on the excise tax regulations to 
the World Trade Organization.  
 
Reply  
 
Seychelles is currently undergoing a review of its Excise Tax regime; the new draft Bill is currently 
under review at the National Assembly. Seychelles deems it most appropriate  that the new Act and 
related regulations be submitted once approved by the National Assembly and assented by the 
President of the Republic of Seychelles.  WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
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Page 46, Table 3.2 : Table 3.2 of the Secretariat's Report lists "Fur -skins, hides and skins of animals" 
as a prohibited product. Seychelles' Customs Management (Prohibited and Restricted Goods) 
Regulations, 2019 (see page 234 of https://www.src.gov.sc/resources/SI/2019/SI41of2019.pdf ) 
includes those products in the list of prohibited goods. Seychelles' most recent import licensing 
notification ( G/LIC/N/3/SYC/4  of December 2021) states "An importer intending to import fur skins, 
hides and skins of animals is required to apply for an import license from the National Biosecurity 
Agency, through the Impor t and Export Unit from the Trade Division of the Ministry of Finance, 
Economic Planning and Trade…"  
Question s 8&9 
 
• Are "fur -skins, hides and skins of animals" prohibited or can they be brought in with an 
import license?  
• If this is an error in the import licensing notification, are there any other goods listed in the 
notification as eligible for entry with a license which are actually prohibited?  
 
Reply  
 
They can be imported, but there are strict requirements/conditions that the importer needs to follow 
and comply with, based on market access, risk analysis/assessment and import conditions put in place 
to faci litate safe trade of these products between the trading countries  as stipulated under the Animal 
and Plant Biosecurity Act, 2014, which also makes provision for the application of international 
standards developed by OIE and WTO agreement on the applicati on of Sanitary and Phytosanitary 
Measures.  
Page 47, paragraph 3.51 : The Secretariat's Report indicates that import permit applicants go to one 
entity (the Import and Export Permit Unit of the Ministry of Finance, National Planning, and Trade). 
However, the  report also states that "Currently, 13 government institutions are involved in the approval 
of a licence." The most recent import licensing notification suggests that far fewer than 13 government 
entities are involved in the approval of any individual imp ort license.  
Question  10 
 
• Please clarify whether there are any agricultural product import licenses that require 
involvement from more than the Agriculture Department and the Import and Export Permit 
Unit. 
 
Reply  
 
The Agriculture Department is the agency designated and responsible for biosecurity covering both 
animal and plant health for the purpose of Animal and Plant Biosecurity Act, 2014, which also makes 
provision in our international obligations under OIE, IPPC  and WTO -SPS Agreement. This mainly 
involves the regulation and control of the movement of animal and plant pests and diseases and of 
animals and plants and their products within Seychelles, to facilitate international trade and 
cooperation in respect of a nimal and plant pests and diseases and for matters connected therewith and 
incidental thereto.  
Importations of pesticides needs approval of the Pesticide Board prior to importation as per Pesticide 
Act, 1996, currently under review which is administered b y the Ministry of Health, and the Agriculture 
Department is member of the Pesticide Board.  
Page 49, paragraphs 3.62 -3.66: According to the Secretariat's Report, Seychelles does not maintain 
any support program for exports and promotes them mainly through its free -zone regime in its 
International Trade Zones, where companies enjoy incentives such as duty -free and VAT -free imp orts, 
as well as property tax exemptions. Moreover, the Report says these incentives are not based on 
export performance or on local content requirements; however, companies must be export -oriented 
and are granted activity licenses provided that, inter ali a, the companies' focus is exporting.   
 
 Question s 11, 12, 13  
 
• Could Seychelles explain how an ITZ company can show that it is export -oriented and is 
focused on exporting?   
 WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
- 18 - 
 
• How is this consistent with the statement that ITZ incentives are not based on export 
performance?  
 
• Could Seychelles clarify how these ITZ incentives are not covered by the SCM Agreement?   
 
Reply  
 
The International Trade Zone (ITZ ) is a zone created by an Act of Parliament to allow for international 
trading in and through Seychelles. The Seychelles Financial Services Authority (FSA) manages the ITZ. 
The Authority is mandated by law to regulate and control the activities that take p lace inside any 
declared International Trade Zone in Seychelles.  
 
1) Upon initial licensing of a company, the company needs to show that the main activity of the 
company is geared towards exportation and this can be seen through the initial business plan 
subm itted to the FSA for approval. Subject to the approval of the FSA, these companies may 
provide sales or services to the domestic market.  
 
2) The relevant incentives provided to ITZ licensed companies are automatically provided upon 
the licensing and demarcat ion of a zone rather than its actual export performance. In this 
regard, Seychelles is of the view that these measures are not inconsistent with the SCM 
Agreement; nonetheless, the ITZ regime is currently under review and may take into 
consideration any re commendations identified in the Trade Policy Review . 
 
Page 50, paragraphs 3.70 -3.71: According to the Secretariat's Report, Seychelles maintains various 
types of incentives,  comprising fiscal concessions, credits at subsidized interest rates, grants, and 
targeted subsidies, some of which were implemented during the review period.  The Report adds that 
in 2020, Seychelles adopted three additional credit schemes in response to the COVID -19 pandemic, 
which Seychelles notified in 2021.   
 
Question  14 
 
• With regard to the non -COVID -related incentives, when will Seychelles provide updated 
notification pursuant to the notification obligations under Article 25 of the SCM Agreement?   
 
Reply  
 
Seychelles will endeavour  to submit these notifications during 2023.  
 
Page 52, paragraph 3.78 : The Secretariat's Report mentions credit schemes, grants, fiscal 
concessions and producer subsidies supporting the fisheries sector, and specifically identifies the 
Fisheries Development  Fund and the Blue Investment Fund as providing loans at preferential 
conditions.   
 
 Question  15 
 
• When will Seychelles provide updated notification of these fisheries incentives pursuant to 
the notification obligations under Article 25 of the SCM Agreement ?  
 
Reply  
 
Seychelles will endeavour to submit these notifications before the end of 2023 . 
 
Question  16 
 
• Do the relevant authorities monitor for overcapacity or overfishing related to these programs, 
and to what extent do the authorities take mitigating measures?   
 
Reply  
 
The Fisheries Development Fund does not cater for funding or introduction of new vessels into the 
fisheries sector. The main purpose of the Fund is to support value -addition/fish processing and reduce 
post-harvest loss, primarily from the small -scale artis anal fisheries sector. The authorities maintain 
registers of all fishing vessels, including their carrying capacity, licences issued, and records and WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
- 19 - 
 
monitors catch and efforts from all fleet segments and fisheries. There are different management 
measures in application depending on the fishery, such as limited entry, quota, closed seasons etc.  
  
3.3.2 Standards and other technical requirements   
  
Page 54, paragraph 3.85 : According to the report, the current procedure for preparing and issuing 
standards or technical  regulations is to establish a committee comprising representatives from the 
private sector, government, academia, and civil society to review and complete the draft standard.   
  
Question  17 
 
• Can representatives from the private sector include foreign businesses operating in the 
Seychelles?    
 
Reply  
 
Yes, representatives from the private sector including foreign businesses operating in the Seychelles 
can be represented on the committees as there is no rule preventing the representation o f foreign 
businesses which operate in Seychelles from being part of the Committees established.  
 
In regard to standard development, this is in line with the Code of Good Practice for the preparation, 
adoption and application of Standards and for Technical  Regulations, this is in line with the code of 
good practice for the preparation and application of Technical Regulations as per the provision of WTO 
TBT Agreements of which Seychelles is party to.  
Nonetheless, for the technical regulations, the private se ctor is more often represented by associations 
rather than individual businesses, such as the Seychelles Chamber of Commerce and Industry.  
 
Page 57, paragraph 3.101 : The Secretariat's Report states that 'there are no legal provisions 
regarding [GMO] importation." However, sections 8.10 to 13, and 8.15 in Seychelles' National Biosafety 
Framework require that transboundary movement of genetically engineered material be d isclosed via 
an advance informed approval (AIA) procedure.  
Question  18 
 
• Please clarify if such notifications are currently required.  
Reply  
 
Yes, all importers are required to follow the Advance Informed Agreement (AIA) procedure for any 
transboundary movement of an LMO for intentional introduction into the environment.  
Question  19 
 
• Please confirm Seychelles' current requirement for exporters of "GMO" or genetically 
engineered products into Seychelles.  
 
Reply  
 
Seychelles follows the Cartag ena Protocol on Biosafety to the Convention on Biological Diversity as its 
basis for control of exports of GMOs.  
Depending on the nature of the GMO there are different specific requirements. These are specified in 
the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety, which  is an international treaty governing the movements of living 
modified organism from one country to another.  
Currently Seychelles is using the different sets of rules and requirements set under the Cartagena 
Protocol on Biosafety when approving or rejectin g applications submitted by importers. As Seychelles 
is still working on its national procedures for the importation of GMOs.   
Pages 60 -61, Table 3.7 : The Secretariat's Report indicates that the Financial Services  
Authority is an offshore and financial services regulator.  
 WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
- 20 - 
 
Question s 20&21  
 
• Does the Financial Services Authority provide financial services in the marketplace or only 
regulate other provide rs?  
• To the extent it regulates other financial services suppliers, does the Financial Services 
Authority apply its regulatory discretion between its regulation of Seychelles Commercial 
Bank Ltd, Nouvobank, and private sector banking providers?  
 
Reply  
 
The Financial Services Authority is the Seychelles’ non -bank financial services regulator. Sectors 
regulated and supervised by the FSA are the Securities, Insurance, Pension, International Financial 
Services (“offshore”), International Trade Zones Sectors.  The FSA is also responsible for the 
supervision of the Seychelles Gambling Sector. The FSA’s mandates are set out under the Financial 
Services Authority Act, 2013 (FSA Act)  
 
1) The FSA does not provide any financial services in the market place but rather re gulates and 
supervises the licensed service providers under the different relevant regulatory legislations 
such as the;  
 
a) Securities Act;  
b) Insurance Act;  
c) Mutual and Hedge Fund Act;  
d) International Corporate Service Providers Act;  
 
2) The FSA does not regulate of supervise Banks such as the Seychelles Commercial Bank, 
Nouvobanq and private Sector banking providers. These would fall under the supervisory 
remit of the Central Bank of Seychelles (CBS).  
 
Notwithstanding the above the FSA the regulates the licensed prov iders under its remit in 
accordance with the FSA Act itself and the relevant regulatory and registry legislations that it 
administers.  
 
Page 62, paragraph 3.116 :  
Question  22 
 
• Does STC  operate on a commercial basis in its sale of imported goods other than the 14 
commodities sold at subsidized prices?  
 
Reply  
 
Yes. 
Question  23 
 
• By virtue of its sale of commodities at lower than market prices, to what extent can private 
sector companies o perate in the sale of these commodities, or does this ability give STC a de 
facto domestic monopoly?  
 
Reply  
 
The wholesale and retail sectors are open to competition; therefore, they compete by providing 
numerous brands of products at different prices. Thus, consumers have choices based on their 
purchasing power.  
STC’s mandate on those products is to provide an affordable option to the more vulnerable consumers.  
Page 9, paragraph 20 and page 67, paragraph 3.136 :  
Question  24 
 
• Is the Seychelles planning to amend the Copyright Act of 2014, as amended in 2019?  
 WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
- 21 - 
 
Reply  
 
The Copyright act of 2014 is still in force; however, there currently is an ongoing law review which 
includes the following:  
i. Copyright Act  
ii. Copyright Regulations (inclusive of Collective Management of Copyright and Neighbouring 
Rights)  
 
Question 2 5 
 
• If so, when do you anticipate the new law will be implemented?  
 
Reply  
By the end of 2023.  
Page 67, paragraphs 3.137 and 3.138 :  
Question  26 
 
Are works that are eligible for copyright protection protected by copyright even when they are not 
registered?  
 
Reply  
 
Yes, the Copyright Act makes provision for voluntary registration of Copyrights.  
Page 68, paragraph 3.139 :  
Question  26 
 
What sorts of work does the National IP Committee do regarding copyrights?  
 
Reply  
 
Roles and Functions of the National IP Committee  
Main functions  
• Provide technical guidance on IP activities relating to copyright, industrial property rights 
and other IPRs at the national level.  
• Serve as a coordination mechanism to facilitate the ex change of information among the 
different stakeholders at national lev el. 
• Provide technical guidance and advice to the competent authorities on the effective 
implementation of TRIPS agreements.  
 
Capacity building  
• Discuss the requirement of the country in the areas of IP and the policies that will need 
to be put in place to ensure that the local community benefits from their required IP 
rights.  
• Identify, facilitate, monitor and assess the implementation of capacity building activities 
including training on IP matters  
 
Policy and strategic roles  
• Advise and strategize on policies relating to IPR and oversee its implementation at 
national level  
• Provide advice and guidance on review of policies and legislation related to IP.  
• Identify, articulate and advocate IP issues which are of importance to the country.  WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
- 22 - 
 
• Coordinate pri or consultations with stakeholders in preparation of country positions with 
regards to regional and international matters related to IP.  
• Discuss the implementation of provisions of current international agreements Seychelles 
is party to and any future agre ements Seychelles envisage to join.  
 
Sensitisation roles  
• Coordinate and facilitate sensitisation campaign to governmental institutions, private 
sector, civil society and the general public.  
• Facilitate the provision of relevant information to stakeholders i ncluding entrepreneurs 
and contribute to raising awareness on IP matters.  
Page 69, paragraph 3.144 :  
Question  27 
 
Does the Seychelles plan on joining the Berne Convention, The WIPO Copyright Treaty, The WIPO 
Performances and Phonograms Treaty or the Marrakesh Treaty to Facilitate Access to Published Works 
for Persons Who Are Blind, Visually Impaired, or Otherwise Print Disabled?  
Reply  
 
Seychelles is currently considering accession to a number of Copyright treaties. This is still work in 
progress and s ubject to sensitization, national consultations and capacity building for implementation 
purposes.  
Page 75, paragraph 4.29 : The Secretariat's Report points out that the last domestic support 
notification Seychelles submitted to the WTO was for 2017.  
Question  28 
 
• When does Seychelles plan to submit outstanding notifications?  
 
Reply  
 
Seychelles already submitted notification for the year 2018 -2019 and will endeavour to complete the 
outstanding ones before the end of 2023.  
Part II. Questions based on the Government Report (WT/TPR/G/432)  
 
Page 19, paragraph 9.14 :  
 
Question  29 
 
Seychelles states that it is in the process of developing its trade remedies legislation.  When does 
Seychelles expect to have this legislation completed?   
 
Reply  
 
Seychelles is currently seeking capacity building in this area, with a view that this will as sist the country 
with completing its Trade Remedies legislation by the end of 2023. Seychelles welcomes any further 
assistance in this area to facilitate this process.  
 
  WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
- 23 - 
 
5  EUROPEAN UNION  
WT/TPR/G/433 – Government report SEYCHELLES  
 
1 INTRODUCTION  
 
Para 1.4 page 4 Diversification  
 
1.4. …. The experiences of 2020 signalled a need to diversify the economy and to reduce reliance on 
tourism.  However, meaningful diversification takes time and therefore recovery measures were taken 
were nee ded in the short term.  
 
Question  1 
Can the government provide a status update on the diversification strategy and specify if 
any particular sectors that have export potential have been identified?  
 
Reply  
The impact of COVID -19 on Seychelles' main economic pillar, the tourism sector, underscored the need 
for the Government to accelerate plans of economic diversification. Correspondingly, the new 
Government has committed to a Transformative Economic Agenda, which aims to build a resilient, 
inclusive and sustainable economy. It is important to note that as a small, open island economy heavily 
exposed to balance of payments shocks and thus appropriate strategies are required to ensure that 
not only is the target to increase exports but also to improve e conomic efficiency to reduce import 
dependence.  
In the fisheries sector, the limited scope for growth in catch or production has led to a strategy of value 
addition and product differentiation. In this regard, a Fish Processing Zone is being developed with  the 
aim to modernize the local industrial fishing industry and encourage investment in value added fish 
processing. Moreover, necessary infrastructure is being set up to ensure efficient structure is 
established for exports via the air route.  
With focus o n the sustainable exploitation of the blue economy, the Government is also assessing the 
potential of oil exploration in Seychelles' territorial waters. This project, spearheaded by the Blue 
Economy Department, provides the opportunity for the creation of a new source of revenue for the 
economy. However, substantial modalities need to be established to ensure the industry is aligned with 
long run objectives.  
Furthermore, given that Seychelles imports most of its food, the recent external shocks have 
highli ghted the importance of achieving food security. In this regard, the agricultural sector has made 
considerable efforts towards promoting consumption of local produce as well as identifying avenues to 
achieve sustainable import substitution. Moreover, asses sments are being undertaken to explore the 
viability of the development of cash crops, or with value addition, mindful of a brand premium of the 
country.  
The country is also in the process of setting up a circular economy framework with the aim to reduce 
the amount of solid waste on the landfill which is operating at almost full capacity.  In this regard, it is 
recognised that the development of the circular economy provides potential investment opportunities 
as well as exports of waste materials.  
As regard s to the tourism sector, sustained efforts are being made to further diversify markets and 
create further value addition within the economy.  
Question: 2 
If yes, what are the measures that have been put in place by Government to achieve the 
results?  
Reply  
A priority area of government is "A Modern Public Service". This involved the full roll out of the Results 
Based Management Framework and embedding a performance based system whereby each Ministry is 
required to meet a set of explicit targets.  In doing so,  the assumption is that synergies with the WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
- 24 - 
 
Transformative Economic Agenda (TEA) would improve substantially, whereby key targets/milestones 
would be aligned with the priorities of government.  
In addition, with external technical and financial support, the Ministry of Investment, Entrepreneurship 
and Industry (MIEI) in conjunction with key stakeholders are developing the Seychelles Development 
Goals (SDG) Investor Map with the aim to identify the investment opportunity areas in line with the 
development need s of the country. Furthermore, the Ministry is also pursuing the development of an 
Industrial Policy (in conjunction with the EU) with a strong focus on stimulating the contribution of the 
manufacturing industry towards economic growth and development in S eychelles. The latter two 
policies are to embed the TEA and channel investment in the appropriate areas.  
Additionally, with the assistance of the African Union and the International Trade Centre, Seychelles 
will implement the African Trade Observatory proj ect which, over and above its objective of monitoring 
the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), will help connect 
potential importers and exporters.    
Furthermore, with the assistance of European Union under the 11th Economic Development Fund 
programme, there have been particular projects commissioned with the aim of identifying products 
with export potential.  
2 ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT  
2.1 MACROECONOMIC OVERVIEW  
2.2 Challenges to Growth in the Context of COVID -19 
Para 2.9 page 5 Credit line facilities  
2.9. Furthermore, the CBS issued two credit line facilities as part of a private sector relief programme, 
to help affected enterprises with operating expenses.  
Question  3 
Can the government provide statistics on the number of companies/enterprises that have 
benefited from the credit line facilities and the total amount of funds provided to these 
enterprises?  
Reply  
The private sector relief credit line facilities closed effective March 31, 2022.  The statistics as at 
April 12, 2022 are as follows:  
Private Sector (MSMEs) Relief Scheme  
• Total number of approved applications: 305  
• Total value of approve applications: R145 million  
Private Sector (Large Enterprises) Relief Scheme  
• Total number of approved applications: 28  
• Total val ue of approved applications: R312 million  
Para 2.12 page 6 Subsidies  
2.12. Moreover, Seychelles found it necessary to assist the agricultural sector during the COVID -19 
pandemic, given the price hikes in the cost of imported livestock inputs following sign ificant 
depreciation of the Seychelles' rupee against all major currencies. As such, the government pays for 
the price hikes (price difference between the pre COVID -19 and the COVID -19 era) with the aim of 
maintaining the cost of livestock feed, day old ch icks and hatching eggs. With further deterioration in 
the cost of livestock inputs, the government of Seychelles in August 2020 introduced further measures WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
- 25 - 
 
in the form of transportation subsidies to livestock producers on the Inner Islands, namely Praslin,  La 
Digue, and Denis Island, who depended on livestock feed and day old chicks supply from Mahe.  
Question  4 
Can the government indicate whether these support measures are still being provided?  
Reply  
The Government -supported subsidies provided for under the Livestock Trust Fund (LTF) were 
introduced at the launch of the Comprehensive Agriculture Plan (CAP) 2018 -2021 in October, 2018. 
Those initial set of subsidies, provided at the level of the abattoirs, were broadened in March 2020 to 
include day o ld chicks (DoCs) and livestock feed as a consequence of important price hikes in the cost 
of imported livestock inputs, following significant devaluation of the Seychelles' rupee against all major 
currencies during the COVID -19 pandemic.  
The support is sti ll ongoing but at a reduced rate for sustainability of the program after a complete 
assessment and review of the subsidy allotments taking into consideration all the influencing factors 
based on the current global situation the war in Ukraine which is havi ng ripple effects throughout the 
entire agricultural supply chain, and exchange rates and cost of freight are having a massive impact 
on product going in and out of different markets; in addition to the fact that fertilizer, feed, energy, 
transportation, e tc. is bearing the increase of oil price.  
In this regard, the Agriculture Department decided to go for a capping system to be implemented by 
phases as from next year, 2023. The first half of the year, the sector will be implementing an approach 
that will m aintain the following subsidy at the current level abattoir (operation) subsidy, Carcass 
Subsidy, DOCs subsidy, transportation subsidy and feed subsidy at a 25% capping for both broiler & 
pig. The second half of the year, the Department will be implementin g a second phase approach which 
would include, carcass subsidy, transportation subsidy and feed subsidy at a 15% capping for both 
broiler & pig until we back on a pre -COVID program.  
This is to assume that farmers will operate their business efficiently an d be less dependent on subsidies. 
Introduction of a better management system, high level of technology and value addition is anticipated 
to increase profit margin.  
3 OVERVIEW OF KEY ECONOMIC SECTORS  
3.2 Tourism Sector  
Para 3.5 page 6/7 Cultural audit  
3.5. There are currently works and ongoing assessments of diversifying the Seychelles Tourism Product 
to other potential niche markets such as eco -, agri -, marine, cultural, sports and adventure tourism 
which will lead to the development of the respective polices. Th e Tourism Department is thus also 
conducting a cultural audit to identify individuals and cultural tourism products that will add on to the 
destination's experience.  
Question  5 
Can the government indicate when the cultural audit will be completed?  
Reply  
The Tourism Department commenced the cultural audit in 2021 and has since covered 7 districts in 
total on the 3 principal islands. The cultural audit process requires extensive stakeholder consultations 
with various entities inclusive of the governme nt, surveys, interviews and data gathering and 
compilation to determine the diverse cultural experiences available per district. It takes approximately 
2 months to complete the evaluation of 1 district. Given that the Department currently has limited 
resou rces committed to other activities as well, it envisages to recruit additional staff by Q1 2023 in 
order speed up the process.  WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
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3.5 Agriculture Sector  
Para 3.24 page 9 Increase in production in livestock slaughter  
3.24. Output from the agricultural sector in Se ychelles is estimated to have contracted by 0.5% in 
2020, primarily because of a decline in demand due to the pandemic. In 2021, the sector grew by 
1.0% in view of the increased production of key agricultural products, notably in livestock slaughtered.  
Question 6 
Can the government indicate whether the increase is due to the subsidies provided to the 
sector and what would have been the impact without the subsidies?  
 
Reply  
 
The production has increased due to the level of subsidy provided and without the subsidy program 
this will cause a huge decrease in livestock production and probably collapse the sector due to the 
domestic situation, as we do not have the economies of scale and are also facing enormous competition 
with imported meat product s. The subsidy will be maintained at a sustainable level in line with 
agriculture agreement related to subsidy support to continuously support the sector for sustainability 
of food and nutrition security of the country. The agriculture sector is greatly im pacted with the high 
cost of production locally which is uncompetitive, as all raw materials have to be imported to support 
the growth and sustainability of the agriculture sector in Seychelles.  
Para 3.25 page 9 Increase in cinnamon production  
3.25. In 202 1, the slaughter of broiler chickens, pigs, and cattle expanded by 31%, 12%, and 26%, 
respectively. By contrast, the production of eggs is estimated to have declined by 3.1% in YoY terms. 
Regarding crop production, mixed movements were observed in the firs t three quarters of 2021 
compared to the same period in 2020; cinnamon production increased by 644% while output of tea 
declined by 40%.  
Question: 7 
Could the government provide the reasons behind the surge in cinnamon production 
in 2021?  
Reply  
This was primarily due to the fact that the government had a national -wide campaign to promote the 
sector and also developed a mechanism to allow easier access to harvesting of cinnamon and this was 
done through facilitation provided by the Investment Prom otion Agency.   
As part of this plan, potential Seychellois investors would access available land to harvest cinnamon. 
Subsequently, products that are widely sought after in international markets, such as essential oils 
and the essence of cinnamon can be p roduced.  
 
Out of the first three quarters of 2020, cinnamon was only produced in the third quarter of the year. 
Meanwhile, there was cinnamon production in all three quarters of 2021. When compared to the same 
period in 2021, a significant increase was ob served in year -on-year terms.   
3.6 Energy Sector  
Para 3.27 -page 9 Renewable energy  
3.27. Seychelles is heavily dependent on imported fossil fuels; currently, over 95% of the electricity 
generation is from oil -based power plants. This has exposed its economy t o global fuel supply chain 
risks and raised concerns over its energy security. The dominance of fossil fuels in meeting the 
country's energy demand is a common feature of SIDS. The country has conveyed its long -term 
commitment to move to 100% renewable ene rgy (RE) by 2050, with a near -term target of 15% RE by 
2030.  WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
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Question  8 
Can the government briefly provide the measures it plans to put in place to reach the 15% 
target in renewable energy in the near term and achieve 100% by 2030?  
 
Reply  
 
The Government of Seychelles is currently undertaking an Integrated Resource Plan Study  that will 
define the long -term vision for the power sector of Seychelles by looking at the sector from least cost 
supply approach to a broader and more holistic analysis, taking into consideration effects on the wider 
economy, environment, and society. Th e study will:  
 
• Ensure a reliable and diversified supply of electricity to existing and new customers;  
• Sustainable use of national resources with careful consideration of the environment, climate 
resilience, and future generations  
• Provide a plan to meet the  policy targets, e.g. the 15%.  
 
Additionally, the Government of Seychelles is currently reforming the energy sector, more specifically 
the institutional and legislative framework of the energy sector. This will contribute to the creation of 
an enabling env ironment for accelerating the deployment of renewable energy, primarily solar. Other 
forms include wind, bioenergy, waste -to-energy and marine renewables.  
 
4 INVESTMENT CLIMATE  
Para 4.2 page 9  
4.2. The foundation of Seychelles' investment framework is made up of the Seychelles Investment 
Policy of 2018, the Reserve Economic Activity Policy (REAP, 2020), the Investment Act (Act 31 of 2010, 
as amended) and the Investment (Economic Activities) Regu lations (Statutory Instrument (SI) 76 of 
2022). The investment framework was reviewed and developed as steps taken by the country to 
enhance its investment regimes following the WTO accession.  
Question:  
9 Can the government provide the rationale behind the restriction of sectors in 
investment?  
Reply  
These are sectors that are traditionally been done by Seychellois, some with cultural or socio -economic 
significance. The investment amount to set up and opera te these sectors are not significant to warrant 
foreign investment. Also, Seychelles has traditionally run training programs to help individuals develop 
the skills to set up and operate these types of small businesses.  
Para 4.3 page 11  
4.3. Seychelles als o actively engages in different modes pertaining to improving the Ease of Doing 
Business in the country. Some actions which are currently being undertaken includes the development 
of an investment portal which is to serve as a virtual platform for investor  information and efficient 
application; updating the Companies Act to allow for digital filing of returns and applications; and the 
development of a provisional licence framework which allows a temporary regulatory framework for 
innovative businesses to op erate.  
Question  10 
Can the government provide the time frame for the operationalization of the investment 
portal?  
Reply  
The Investment Portal is being developed in two phases The first phase is to have the simple online 
project submission in interactive template form on the Seychelles Investment Board's website.  
The second phase will be the proper platform itself where the investment information, requirements 
and procedures will be done fully through the Investment Portal platform. This platfo rm will also be WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
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linked with other relevant regulatory bodies' online systems where these are available. This is meant 
to be available by the end of the second quarter of 2023.  
Para 4.4 page 11  
4.4. Additionally, an Investment Policy review was conducted b y UNCTAD in 2020 with a list of 
recommendation of actions to be undertaken to improve the investment climate in Seychelles. The 
Ministry responsible for Investment has taken this up as part of its action plan for the coming years to 
help improve the invest ment climate in Seychelles.  
Question  11 
Can the government indicate whether it plans to review the list of restrictive sectors so as 
to add new ones or open up restrictions for foreign entities to make it more open to invest 
following the report from UNCTA D? 
Reply  
The COVID -19 pandemic and the economic shock that Seychelles has had to go through has had a 
significant negative impact to the opportunities for the local investors and service providers. Given that 
Seychelles has recently reviewed its investment  law, it does not plan to carry out any additional review 
in the immediate future.  
That being said, Seychelles' investment environment is open to new and other investments in sectors 
outside of the ones we have restricted and opened up already; however, they will need to go through 
the Economic Needs Test with clear criteria on selection . This is specifically the case to help ensure key 
aspects such as environment and innovation is captured within new investment coming into Seychelles.   
7. INVESTMENT DATA   
Para 7.1 page 12  
7.1. Despite the international economic and financial crisis and a moratorium on the construction of 
new large hotels in effect since 2015, Seychelles has almost doubled its stock of FDI since 2010 
(Table  A1.1).  
Question 12  
Can the government indicate whet her the moratorium for large hotels is still applicable?  
Reply  
At present, the moratorium on large hotels remains applicable as prescribed under the Tourism 
Development (Accommodation Establishment) Regulations 2020.  
8. TRADE POLICY FRAMEWORK  
8.1  Tariff Policy  
Para 8.1 page 12  
8.1. Seychelles uses the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System to classify goods 
imported and exported from Seychelles and to apply tariffs. Since the 1 April 2018, Seychelles has 
migrated to the 2017 version an d currently, work is being undertaken to migrate to the 2022 version.  
Question  13 
Can the government indicate when this migration will be completed?  WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
- 29 - 
 
Reply  
The Customs Management (Tariff and Classification of Goods) Regulation 2022 (SI 13 of 2022) was 
Gazet ted in October 2022.  
Para 8.2 page 12  
8.2. With the recent ratification of the HS Convention, Seychelles is doing its utmost to remain up to 
date with the changes being affected by the convention. This is enforced through the Custom 
Management (Tariff and  Classification of Goods) Regulations and the new regulation is expected to 
come into force in October of 2022.  
Question  14 
Can the government confirm whether the regulation is now in force?  
Reply  
Same as above question 13.  
8.4  Trade Facilitation  
Para 8.10 page 13  
8.10. A National Trade Facilitation Committee (NCTF) was set up in September of 2015, providing the 
private and government stakeholders with a platform to encourage discussion on Non -Tariff Barriers 
and to resolve Trade Faci litation related issues, whilst promoting and facilitating trade.  
Question  15  
Can the government provide the composition of the NCTF, the frequency of its meetings and 
the date on which the last meeting was held?  
Reply  
The NCTF is comprised of:  
• Ministry o f Finance, National Planning and Trade  
- Trade Department  
- Finance Department  
• Customs Division  
• Department of Agriculture  
• Department of Environment  
• Seychelles Chamber of Commerce and Industry  
• Seychelles Customs Agent Association  
• Seychelles Fishing Authority  
• Seychelles Civil Aviation Authority  
• Attorney General's Office  
• Seychelles Bureau of Standards  
• Seychelles Port Authority  WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
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• Department of Transport  
• Department of Information and Communication Technology  
• Seychelles Maritime Safety Authority  
• Department of Public Health  
• Handling agents  
- Air Seychelles  
- Land Marine  
- Hunt Deltel  
- Mahe Shipping  
- Seychelles Societe de Navigation  
The Committee is supposed to meet quarterly, but has faced difficulty in doing so given the challenges 
presented by the COVID -19 pandemic.  
The last meeting of the Committee was held on 6th November 2019; nonetheless, several sub -
committee meetings were held during the COVID -19 period to address specific issues.  
8.5  Subsidies and Incentives  
8.5.3  Small and medium sized enterpri ses 
Para 8.21 page 15  
8.21. For these following various sectors, agriculture, fisheries, blue economy, culture, heritage and 
the arts, there is a loan scheme for Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) available in financial 
institutions which is subsid ized by government in order to maintain a low interest rate. These schemes 
are managed by several entities such as the Development Bank of Seychelles, Enterprise Seychelles 
Agency, Seychelles National Youth Council, Seychelles' Conservation and Climate Ada ptation Trust and 
others.  
Question  16 
Can the government indicate the uptake on these schemes in terms of number of enterprises 
that have benefited from the loans and the amount disbursed by the financial institutions 
involved in the scheme?  
Reply  
 
The following tables account for the performance of the SME Scheme, Agricultural Development 
Scheme, Youth Entrepreneurship Scheme and the Seed Capital Grant Scheme. All values indicated are 
expressed in Seychelles rupees.  
SME Scheme  
 2014  2015  2016  2017  2018  2019  2020  2021  2022  
Number of loans  
approved  253 249 373 237 380 494 193 141 124 
Loan Value per 
year (mln)  220,521  235,025  344,614  184,271  308,303  467,454  212,261  126,626  122,107  
 WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
- 31 - 
 
Agricultural Development Fund scheme  
Year  Number of loans approved  Value of loans approved  
2016 10 3,651,000.00  
Apr-17 2 550,000.00  
2018 12 5,346,000.00  
2019 25 7,321,000.00  
2020 24 11,287,000.00  
2021 22 12,653,277.00  
As at Nov 2022  16 11,977,273.00  
 
Youth Entrepreneurship Scheme  
Year  Number of enterprises 
benefited  Revised Budget  Actual Expenditure  
2022  1,000,000.00  Still under reconciliation  
2021  1,000,000.00  Still under reconciliation  
2020 17 1,900,000.00  1,899,694.94  
2019 33 1,000,000.00  984,907.29  
2018 28 1,000,000.00  936,961.00  
2017 28 1,000,000.00  987,422.11  
2016 10 1,000,000.00  Data not available  
 
Seed Capital Grant Scheme  
Year   
Revised Budget  Actual Expenditure  
2020 101 5,000,000.00  4,969,624.04  
2019 95 5,000,000.00  4,544,948.33  
2018 85 5,000,000.00  4,236,916.10  
8.8 Trade in Services – Postal and Courier Services  
Para 8.33 page 16  
8.33. Similarly, an amendment is to be made to the Customs Management Regulations, 2014 to 
modernize and digitalize the mode of information interchange with customs with the aim of creating a 
swift and seamless process for clearance of goods arriving at the airport with the objective of attaining 
a faster turnaround so as to meet market need.  WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
- 32 - 
 
Question  17 
Can the government provide the expected  time frame to carry out the amendment to the 
Customs Management Regulations?  
Reply  
Seychelles expects to complete the amendment to the Customs Management Regulations before the 
end of 2023.  
9 MULTILATERAL, REGIONAL AND BILATERAL TRADE AGREEMENTS AND OTHER  TRADE 
RELATED AGREEMENTS  
9.1 WTO  
9.1.6  WTO Government Procurement Agreement  
Para 9.11 page 19  
9.11. As part of the country's notification obligation, the WTO GPA Committee was made aware in 
February 2020, that the government of Seychelles has commenced a review of its Public Procurement 
Act 2008, and initiated consultations with national stakeholders through an ongoing process. It is 
envisaged that this review would aid in preparing the Seychelles for its eventual accession to the GPA. 
Neverthe less, this is a complex and highly technical process.  
Question  18 
Can the government indicate whether the review of the Public Procurement Act 2008 has 
been completed?  
Reply  
The review of the Public Procurement Legislation including the Public Procurement Act 2008, is being 
undertaken in phases.  
i. Phase 1 was completed in August,2021. Amendments to the appointment and 
composition of the National Tender Board (Approval Authority) and the Review Panel 
(Independent Appeals Panel) was in August,2021.  
ii. The second phase of this review focuses on amendments to procurement thresholds 
and the introduction of Framework Contracts. These proposed amendments have been 
tabled in mid - November,2022 to Parliament and are awaiting approval.  
iii. The final phase will consist of any other required amendments to both the Public 
Procurement Act,2008 and Public Procurement Regulations,2014 which are expected 
to be tabled before Parliament during the last quarter of 2023.   
Question 1 9 
If so, could the government provide a brief summary of the actions taken following the 
review?  
Reply  
Public Procurement Procedures are being adjusted based on the new Procurement Thresholds.  
Question 20  
If not, could the government specify the time frame for the completion of the review?  
Reply  
Refer to answer in 1 and 2 above.  WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
- 33 - 
 
9.1.8  Development of a Trade Remedies Legal Framework  
Para 9.14 page 19  
9.14. With the aim of protecting and promoting a diverse economy for Seychelles, a set of Trade 
Remedies legislations are in the process of being developed, which includes provisions on anti -
dumping, safeguards and countervailing measures. Further assistance is required for the country to 
effectively draft and implement provisions relating to Trade Remedies.  
Question  21  
Can the government bri efly explain the actions undertaken to allow the finalisation of the 
legislative framework and the time frame for its implementation?  
Reply  
Seychelles is currently involved in capacity building exercises to facilitate the continuation of the 
drafting of th e legislations.  
Given that this is an ongoing process and Seychelles is endeavouring to finalise its legislations by the 
end of the 2023, the confirmation on the time frame for implementation is yet to be decided.  
ANNEXES  
Annexes page 22 Foreign direct investment  
Table A1.1 Table with FDI figures and FDI stock from 2009 to 2018.   
Question  22 
Can the government provide updated FDI  inflows to the Seychelles for 2019 to 2021 as well 
as a breakdown originating country and destination sectors in the Seychelles?  
2019  
 
WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
- 34 - 
 
2020  
 
2021  
Country: SEYCHELLES
2021 Estimated Inward Investments
% Sectors By Countries BritishBritish/ 
SeychelloisBritish/ Ukranian/ 
SeychelloisCanadian ChineseCzech 
RepublicFrenchFrench/ 
AustriaGerman Indian IranianIranian/ 
SeychelloisKorean Lebanese MauritianMauritian/ 
SeychelloisPolandPolish/ 
SeychelloisRussianSeychellois/ 
GermanSeychellois/ 
NigerianSeychellois/Bel
giqueSeychelloise/ 
BulgarianSouth 
AfricanSri Lankan SwitzerlandSyrian 
Arab 
RepublicUAE/ 
SeychelloisGrand 
Total
Arts, Entertainment & Recreation 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 2.55% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 2.55%
Construction 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.59% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.59%
Health & Wellness 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00%
Information Technology & Communication 0.00% 0.00% 0.01% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.04% 0.13% 0.00% 0.00% 0.18%
Manufacturing & Repairs 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.23% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.23%
Professional Services 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.03% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.05% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.01% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.01% 0.82% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.92%
Tourism 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.01% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.04% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.08% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 94.71% 94.83%
Wholesale & Retail Trade 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.16% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.01% 0.00% 0.07% 0.03% 0.30% 0.00% 0.00% 0.02% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.07% 0.00% 0.01% 0.00% 0.00% 0.02% 0.00% 0.70%
Grand Total 0.00% 0.00% 0.01% 0.01% 0.59% 0.16% 0.00% 0.23% 0.04% 0.01% 0.03% 0.07% 0.03% 0.30% 0.05% 0.08% 0.02% 2.55% 0.00% 0.01% 0.00% 0.07% 0.00% 0.02% 0.86% 0.13% 0.02% 94.71% 100.00%
Note: Estimates based on approved Investment by sectors from Seychelles Investment Bureau (SIB)
Data may differ from previous submissions due to revisions
Source : Central Bank Of Seychelles(CBS)
2021 Estimated Inward Investments
UAE/ Seychellois 94.71%
Polish/ Seychellois 2.55%
Sri Lankan 0.86%
Chinese 0.59%
Lebanese 0.30%
French/ Austria 0.23%
Czech Republic 0.16%
Switzerland 0.13%
Mauritian/ Seychellois 0.08%
Seychellois/Belgique 0.07%
Iranian/ Seychellois 0.07%
Mauritian 0.05%
German 0.04%
Korean 0.03%
Iranian 0.03%
Poland 0.02%
South African 0.02%
Syrian Arab Republic 0.02%
Seychellois/ German 0.01%
British/ Ukranian/ Seychellois 0.01%
Canadian 0.01%
Indian 0.01%
Seychelloise/ Bulgarian 0.00%
Russian 0.00%
French 0.00%
British 0.00%
Seychellois/ Nigerian 0.00%
British/ Seychellois 0.00%
2021 %  Inward Investment by C ountry 
UAE/ Seychellois Polish/ Seychellois Sri Lankan Chinese
Lebanese French/ Austria Czech Republic Switzerland
Mauritian/ Seychellois Seychellois/Belgique Iranian/ Seychellois Mauritian
German Korean Iranian Poland
South African Syrian Arab Republic Seychellois/ GermanWT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
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  WT/TPR/S/433  
1 ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT  
2 Trade and investment regimes  
2.4 Foreign Investment Regime  
2.4.2  Regulatory framework  
Para 2.54 & 2.55 page 33 -34  
Question  23 
Could you explain how is FDI  in agriculture; forestry, fishing and aquaculture; mining and 
quarrying; manufacturing; and production / transmission / distribution of electricity and 
gas treated under the new Investment (Economic Activities) Regulations 2022?  
Reply  
Shall any of the above activities be classified or listed in the first schedule of the S.I. 76 of 2022, 
Seychelles Investment (Economic Activities) Regulations, 2022, a non -Seychellois investor may 
invest freely without any barriers/limitations and subject ed to domestic administrative and licensing 
procedures. If it is classified under the second schedule it will be activities in which a non -Seychellois 
may invest jointly with a person who is a Seychellois, to the extent of the limit specified in the 
Schedu le.  
Otherwise, any economic activity not listed in First Schedule and Second Schedule of these 
regulations, the Reserved Economic Activity Policy or any other investment regulation shall be 
subjected to the Economic Needs Test (ENT).  
Question  24 
What is the market access conditions for foreign investors?  
Reply  
Consistent with Seychelles' WTO commitments, for the sectors listed in the First and Second 
schedule of the Investment (Economic Activities) Regulations 2022, Seychelles does not accord non -
Seychellois investors no less favourable treatments than that provided under the terms, limitations 
and conditions agreed and specified in the schedule.  
Additionally, any other foreign investors, investing investor not specified in the aforementioned 
schedules the Reserved Economic Activity Policy or any other investment regulation will be subjected 
to ENT.  
Question  25 
Could you provide an example of the areas which will be subject to an economic needs 
test under the new Investment (Economic Activities) Re gulations 2022?  
Reply  
Any activities not listed in either in the First Schedule and the Second Schedule of the regulation, 
for example an investor venturing into retail services.  
3 TRADE POLICIES AND PRACTICES BY MEASURE  
3.1 measures directly affecting imports  
3.1.6  Anti-dumping, countervailing, and safeguard measures  
Para 3.52 page 47  WT/TPR/ M/433/Add.1  
 
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 3.52. Seychelles does not have yet any legal and institutional frameworks for the application of anti -
dumping, countervailing, and safeguard measures. Consequently, and i n accordance with its 
accession commitments, Seychelles has not taken any contingency actions to date. According to the 
authorities, the preparation of Seychelles' first legislation in these areas is ongoing.  
Question  26 
Could the Seychelles please comment on the progress of this legislative process and time 
horizon of when this legislation is expected to be finalized?  
Reply  
Seychelles is currently involved in capacity building exercises in order to facilitate the continuation 
of the drafting of the legislation.  
Seychelles is endeavouring to finalise this legislation by the end of 2023.  
4 trade policies by sector  
4.4 Services  
4.4.3  Transport  
4.4.3.1  Maritime transport and port services  
Para 4.152 page 47  
4.152. According to the authorities, Port Victoria applies the International Ship and Port Facility 
Security Code (ISPS Code). Port licences are issued to local companies and local citizens.  
Question  27 
Could the Seychelles provide further information on the port licencing regime? Could  they 
provide us with a detailed description of the specific services that port licences authorise 
operators to supply?  
Reply  
The International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS Code) or more specifically its 
domesticated version the Merchant Ship ping (International Ship and Port Facility Security Code), 
Regulation 2020 does not make any provisions for the issuance of Port licenses or any types of 
licenses. Instead, this Code or its regulation provides for regulating Port Facilities within the 
Seychelles by ensuring that maritime related security measures are in place for both Port facilities 
and ships berthing at those Ports. This is in line with the SOLAS Convention as promulgated by the 
International Maritime Organization as a direct response to the 9/11 attack in the USA.   WT/TPR/M/433/Add.1  
 
- 37 - 
 
  6  JAPAN  
Part I  
Report by the Secretariat (WT/TPR/S/433)  
4 Trade policies by sectors  
4.4 Services  
4.3.3 Transport  
Question 1 : Paragraph 4.147 page 97  
Japan would like to know if there are any plans to expand Port Victoria, the largest trading 
port in Seychelles. It is highly appreciated if the details are provided.  
Reply  
Yes, Port Victoria is currently undergoing a complete redevelopment, and the project is expected to 
start next year. This involves primarily the construction of a new extension of approximately 300m 
to double the quay length followed by the demolition and reconstruction of the existing 50 and 40 -
year-old quays (Mahe Quay consists of 2 segments first built in the 70s and extended in th e 80s), 
along with associated dredging and reclamation works required for this construction. A new 
Concessionaire will be appointed to construct the terminal pavements and buildings, procure mobile 
harbor cranes and terminal handling equipment, to operate the container and general cargo terminal 
under a concession agreement for 25 years.  
 
To ensure 24/7 operations of the quay and terminal during the construction works, the project will 
be undertaken in 2 phases. In the first phase the extension will be bui lt by the Seychelles Ports 
Authority and in parallel the Concessionaire will build and equip the new terminal. Once this phase 
is complete operations will shift to the new quay and terminal and the existing terminal area and 
quay will be demolished and reb uilt. 
 
Part II  
Report by the Government (WT/TPR/G/433  
3 Overview of Key Economic Sectors  
3.6 Energy Sector  
Question 2 : Paragraph.3.27 Page 9 -10 
Japan would like to know whether Seychelles plans to introduce LRT (Light Rail Transit) 
pertaining to the use of  renewable energy and green technology in transportation. 
Furthermore, in this regard Japan also would like to know Seychelles government's policy 
on the introduction of hydrogen power generation and hydrogen vehicles.  
Reply  
LRT was a concept that was look ed into over 10 years ago. This concept was presented to the private 
sector for their consideration. However, based on analysis conducted, it was found that it would not 
be economically viable to introduce LRT, in view of ridership being too low which woul d make the 
cost per trip extremely high. Since then, Seychelles has not re -looked into the prospect of the 
introduction of a light rail transit system.   
Nonetheless, Seychelles is currently implementing a GEF e -mobility project being led by the 
Department  of Transport, with the main objective being to green our transportation sector. We 
recognize the opportunities presented by hydrogen technologies and its applications, specifically in 
power generation and transportation; this could certainly be a potentia l contributor to our low carbon 
and zero -emission transition.   
 
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