WT/TPR/M/304  
WT/TPR/M/305  
22 January 2015  
(15-0433)  Page: 1/56  
Trade Policy Review Body 
22 and 24 October 2014   
 
  TRADE POLICY REVIEW 
DJIBOUTI AND MAURITIUS  
MINUTES OF THE MEETING 
Chairperson: H.E. Mrs. Mariam MD Salleh (Malaysia) 
CONTENTS 
 
1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAI RPERSON ....................................................... 2  
2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF DJIBOUTI .................................... 4  
3  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF MAURITIUS ................................. 8  
4  STATEMENT BY TH E DISCUSSANT .............................................................................. 14  
5  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS ........................................................................................ 20  
6  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF DJIBOUTI ....................................................... 44  
7  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF MAURITIUS AND ADDITIONAL 
COMMENTS ..................................................................................................................... 49  
8  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAI RPERSON ......................................................... 55  
 
 
Note: Advance written questions and additional questions by WTO Members, and the replies 
provided by Djibouti and Mauritius are reproduced in document WT/TPR/M/305/Add.1 and 
WT/TPR/M/304/Add.1 and will be available online at http://www.wto.org/english/tr atop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
WT/TPR/M/305 • Djibouti 
 
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  1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON 
1.1.  The second Trade Policy Review of Djibouti an d the fourth Trade Policy Review of Mauritius 
was held on 22 and 24 October 2014. The Chairperson H.E. Mrs Mariam MD Salleh (Malaysia) welcomed the delegation of Djibouti headed by H.E. Mr. Hassan Ahmed Boulaleh, Minister 
Delegate for Trade; the delegation of Mauritius headed by Mrs. Usha Dwarka-Canabady, Secretary 
for Foreign Affairs; the rest of the two delegations, including H.E. Mr. Mohamed Siad Douale, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Djibouti and H.E. Mr. Israhyananda Dhalladoo of 
Mauritius; other colleagues from the mission in Geneva; and the discussant, H.E. Mr Gabriel Duque 
(Colombia). 
1.2.  The Chairperson recalled the purpose of the Tr ade Policy Reviews and the main elements of 
the procedures for the meeting. The reports by Djibouti and Mauritius were contained in 
documents WT/TPR/G/305 and WT/TPR/G/304 and that of the WTO Secretariat in WT/TPR/S/305 
and WT/TPR/S/304. 
1.3.  Questions by the following delegations had been  submitted in writing at least two weeks in 
advance and had been transmitted to the delegation s of Djibouti and Mauritius: the United States; 
Canada; China; the European Union and Brazil. The following delegations submitted written questions after the two-week deadline: Peru and Thailand. 
1.4.  It appeared from the reports that Djibouti's economy was dominated by services with no 
significant production of goods. GDP growth acce lerated recently, averaging some 5% since 2007. 
The report by the Secretariat stressed that agri culture was marginal and manufacturing remained 
underdeveloped, constrained by tax burden, and high labour and energy costs. Nevertheless, the 
authorities were committed to making trade and regional integration a tool of economic 
development. Steps were being taken, including through a public-private dialogue to ensure an environment conducive to investment, competitive production and exports; and Members were 
interested to know more about these practical efforts. 
1.5.  The Chairperson recalled that during the previous review, Members had expressed their 
concern regarding the lack of transparency in Djibouti's Internal Consumption Tax or TIC system 
as exemptions and concessions had made the TIC a de facto tariff; a Value Added Tax (VAT) had 
been adopted to progressively replace the TIC. However, the concomitant application of the VAT with the TIC further complicated Djibouti's taxation system.  
1.6.  Despite noticeable reforms in its trade policies and practices, Djibouti continued to face 
challenges regarding timely notification to the WTO of new trade-related measures. Moreover, 
Djibouti would benefit from promptly addressing the issue of public enterprises in its economy, since this continued to be a major reason for the supply-side constraints already pointed out by 
Members during the previous review. 
1.7.  Turning to Mauritius, Mauritius had pursued a reform agenda that was evident in its previous 
review to make its economy more liberal and competitive. Tariffs had been further reduced so that 
MFN zero rates applied to nearly 90% of its tariff lines; trade facilitation measures had been 
taken; competition legislation had been enacted and a competition commission was working actively. State intervention in the economy remained quite pervasive despite recent liberalization of certain state-trading activities. The Chairperson was sure Members would like to hear from 
Mauritius about its plans to continue al ong this ambitious and positive path. 
1.8.  The Chairperson also noted that new laws on government procurement, competition, 
anti-dumping and copyright had entered into force and work was ongoing to introduce further legal 
and institutional changes in the areas of intellectual property rights and contingency measures. 
The Chairperson had no doubt that Members would have a great interest in both the content and implementation of these new laws.  
1.9.  As noted in the Secretariat report, Mauritius had a relatively diversified economy and it was 
interesting to see how the country was looking to make the most of all of its assets. The services sector was Mauritius' main economic engine, and efforts were underway to build up the ICT sector 
as a key pillar of the economy and develop air and maritime hubs. Mauritius, through its Ocean 
Economy strategy, was considering how it could capitalize on its huge exclusive economic zone WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  and it was actively re-orientating its agricultural sector in the face of changing market access 
conditions for its exports. It was interesting to hear more from Mauritius about the implementation 
of these various initiatives, the results achieved and challenges faced. 
1.10.  The reports and questions from Members and th e replies from Djibouti and Mauritius had 
covered a wide range of issues. The Chairperson was sure that these would be touched upon in 
greater detail at the deliberations on the first and second day of the meeting. Members could access the podcast of this meeting on the Member s' website after the first day of the meeting. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
WT/TPR/M/305 • Djibouti 
 
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  2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF DJIBOUTI (H.E. MR HASSAN 
AHMED BOULALEH) 
2.1.  It is a great honour for me to introduce the second Trade Policy Review of the 
Republic of Djibouti. 
2.2.  I would like to thank the delegates attending this meeting for their interest in this collective 
exercise aimed at understanding the trade policies and practices of the Republic of Djibouti. I am sure that our discussions will be open, concrete and mutually beneficial. 
2.3.  Excellency, Madam Chairperson, I appreciate yo ur words of welcome and introduction to the 
second review of my country's trade policy and thank Ambassador Gabriel Duque of Colombia for agreeing to serve as the discussant and help stimulate a constructive debate. 
2.4.  I would also like to thank the WTO Secretariat team for the excellent work it has done in 
drafting this report on Djibouti's trade policy. 
The Republic of Djibouti and the multilateral trading system 
2.5.  The Republic of Djibouti is a commercial crossroads between Africa and Asia, and the 
Arabian Peninsula in particular. It is a land of exchange and encounters, and trade is ingrained in 
our population's collective memory. It is also a stable country of the Horn of Africa. 
2.6.  Djibouti firmly believes that a rules-based multilateral trading system under the WTO is 
necessary to safeguard the interests of developing countries and to ensure that world trade is 
conducted in an orderly manner. The Government of  Djibouti is continuing to push for an early 
conclusion of the Doha negotiating round, as this would offer significant benefits by boosting not only international trade but also trade among developing countries. 
2.7.  Djibouti has contributed to the consolidation the multilateral trading system by participating 
in all the WTO negotiations, including at the Ninth Ministerial Conference in Bali and especially in regard to the Trade Facilitation Agreement. 
2.8.  Since its last review, Djibouti has concluded several trade and investment agreements. 
These are part of the regional economic integratio n process and are consistent with the principles 
and rules governing the multilateral trading system. They fully contribute to the objectives of trade 
liberalization and openness of our economy. 
2.9.  Developments in the economic environment sinc e the previous review have been prompted 
by the objective of accelerating economic growth conducive to job creation and raising the population's living standards in a liberal and open  trade framework integrated in the regional and 
global economy. In an international context ma rked by the gradual resumption of growth and 
increased demand from Ethiopia, the national economy has trended upwards. 
2.10.  Djibouti's economy recorded strong growth between 2007 and 2013, with GDP rising 
5% per year. This led to increased income and better standards of living for the population; 
per capita income went from US$769 in 2006 to US$1,399 in 2012. 
2.11.  Despite recurring drought in the region, the primary sector performed strongly 
between 2008 and 2013, driven by agricultural  production, cattle exports and the recovery 
of fishing activities. 
2.12.  The secondary sector has also expanded since 2008 thanks to the construction and public 
works subsector and positive performance in the energy subsector. 
2.13.  The tertiary sector, which is the pillar of the national economy, also experienced relatively 
high growth. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  2.14.  Inflation was brought down to 3.7% in 2012 and to 2.5% in 2013 thanks to the stabilization 
of international food prices and a reduction in energy rates for low-consumption households.1 
2.15.  As a result of the Government's prudent public spending policy and improved revenue 
collection, the budget deficit fell to 2.3% of GDP in 2012 and to 0.5% of GDP in 2013. 
Trade 
2.16.  International trade is vital for Djibouti becaus e the country is heavily dependent on imports. 
The high pace of imports in relation to expo rts has generated a persistent trade deficit, 
which accounted for 41.1% of GDP in 2013. Import growth is due to buoyant domestic demand. 
2.17.  Exports of goods and services grew at an average annual rate of 10% and were worth 
US$485 million in 2013. 
Investment 
2.18.  Djibouti's attractiveness is illustrated by the significant upward trend in foreign direct 
investment (FDI) inflows since the last review, rising from US$195 million in 2007 to US$286 million in 2013. The average FDI rate as a percentage of GDP over that period 
was 18.15%. 
2.19.  The Government's strategy will aim to foster the country's competitiveness and 
attractiveness in terms of infrastructure, human capital, governance and a better business 
environment, in particular as regards the treatment and protection of investors. Specific 
investment targeting and attraction activities will be proposed for the more promising sectors. 
2.20.  The Government's efforts to enhance the business climate have been rewarded by the 
Republic of Djibouti topping the list of reform ers in Africa and ranking sixth among the world's 
top ten reformers, according to the World Bank Group's Doing Business 2014  report. 
2.21.  The Government has a plan to establish an international commercial court in the free zone 
in order to encourage trade. This extraterritorial court will implement international standards and 
best practice. It will apply the common law le gal system and be independent of the ordinary 
national courts, which will continue to apply civil law. 
Regional integration of the Republic of Djibouti 
2.22.  The Government's regional integration strategy is to consolidate the liberal status 
of Djibouti's economy and to pursue a policy of openness to the outside world by strengthening the positioning of Djibouti as a regional market. 
2.23.  This vision aims to strengthen the Republic of Djibouti's pioneering role in the Horn of Africa 
as a logistics, trade and financial hub. 
2.24.  Djibouti is accordingly implementing a region al integration programme focusing on four 
specific objectives: 
1. to build up capacities to coordinate regional integration programmes; 
2. to implement the COMESA customs tools; 
3. to facilitate transport and trade along the Djibouti Corridor; and 
4. to promote investment and support for SMEs. 
 Outlook for the Djiboutian economy: The Development Vision 
2.25.  "Djibouti Vision 2035" is the new model for economic development launched by the 
Government in August 2014. It is based on five main pillars, namely: (i) national peace and unity; 
                                               
1 Ministry of the Economy and Finance. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  (ii) good governance; (iii) a diversified economy; (iv) the consolidation of human capital; and 
(v) regional integration. 
2.26.  The objective is to make the Republic of Djibouti an emerging middle-income country 
by 2035. This is an extensive and ambitious prog ramme for change that aims to fundamentally 
transform the country under a growth accele ration and employment promotion strategy. 
2.27.  The Government is accordingly putting a series of programmes into place for the 
development of strategic sectors. 
2.28.  The transport sector is the backbone of Djibouti's economy, and the transport chain is the 
mainstay of economic activity. 
2.29.  Major transport infrastructure works have been carried out whilst others are in progress. 
This includes the port complex at Doraleh, which has oil, gas and container terminals, and the 
establishment of a trade and industrial free zone . The number of ports has increased from two in 
2006 to five in the near future in order to respond effectively to rising traffic, especially with Ethiopia, the bulk of whose international trade transits through Djibouti. 
2.30.  As part of the transport integration process, the Government has embarked on programmes 
to build two railway lines, new roads and a repair shipyard, set up new free zones and expand Djibouti international airport, which will comply with the international standards for civil aviation. 
The Government will apply an open skies policy and is planning an airport duty free zone. 
Its transport policy contributes to the development of the trade and logistics hub and promotes job creation. 
Tourism 
2.31.  The Republic of Djibouti has enormous potential for development in the tourism sector. 
2.32.  The country is exploiting its rich natural and cultural heritage whilst emphasizing its very 
favourable geographical location and tourism is at the heart of its development strategy. 
2.33.  The objective is to promote the development of a tourism industry and to increase the 
number of tourists to Djibouti as a natural exte nsion of Ethiopian tourist circuits, by offering 
complementary tourism options between the two countries. 
Financial sector 
2.34.  Djibouti's financial sector has deeply changed over the past ten years. The number 
of banking operators has increased by a factor of six and financial activities have been stepped up. 
2.35.  The Government's objective is to contribute to the expansion of a dynamic and efficient 
financial sector geared towards development of the private sector and accelerated 
economic growth. 
2.36.  Deepening of the financial sector will provide access to financing at reasonable cost and to 
long-term resources, using a variety of instruments appropriate for the national economy. 
Djibouti is strengthening its role and its position in both conventional and Islamic finance. 
Energy 
2.37.  The energy sector also plays a critical role  in the socio-economic development of the 
Republic of Djibouti. Medium and long-term en ergy prospects are favourable thanks to the 
country's geothermal, solar and wind power potential and to a stronger interconnection with Ethiopia, which has vast hydroelectric capacity. 
2.38.  Given this highly favourable situation, a number of initiatives have been launched with 
a view to 100% renewable energy generation by 2020. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  2.39.  Energy policy will focus on production and consumption in order to help attain economic 
growth objectives. The supply of enough energy to expand economic activity and diversify the 
economy is a major challenge for the country, as is connecting as much of the population as possible to the electricity supply in order to impr ove living conditions and modernize rural areas. 
ICT 
2.40.  Djibouti's telecommunications infrastructure is in line with international standards. 
The vision for this sector is to modernize it so as to bring about cost reductions and improvements 
to quality of service. 
2.41.  The Government's new strategy for the development of ICT is to move towards an orderly 
and progressive opening of the market. 
Conclusion 
2.42.  I shall conclude by reaffirming that the Republic of Djibouti is firmly committed and attaches 
special importance to the conduct of exercises of this kind, which relate to the formulation and implementation of Members' trade policies and pr omote transparency. It is therefore pleased to 
have carried out its second trade policy re view together with the WTO Secretariat. 
2.43.  The Republic of Djibouti will maintain an open trade regime conducive to economic activity. 
It will continue to implement policies that promote the regional and international integration 
of its economy. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  3  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF MAURITIUS (MRS USHA 
DWARKA-CANABADY) 
3.1.  Allow me at the outset, Madam Chair, to express our gratitude to you for presiding over our 
trade policy review and also to the Ambassador of Colombia for accepting to be the discussant for 
this session. We trust both your wise leadership and guidance for the review process. We also 
thank Member States present today to accompany us in this process.  
3.2.  Let me also underline that Mauritius highly values this review process as it offers us the 
opportunity not only to reassess our trade fundamentals but also to reaffirm our unflinching 
commitment to the multilateral trading system and the conduct of the Trade Policy Review. 
3.3.  I avail of this opportunity to warmly welcome the Djibouti delegation led by H.E. Mr. Hassan 
Ahmed Boulaleh, Minister of State for Trade. My delegation wishes to commend the comprehensive 
presentation you have just made and the insightful  overview of the Djibouti economy including the 
robust measures taken by the Government of Djibouti namely the Economic Transformation Programme and the Strategy for Accelerated Growth and Employment Creation. 
3.4.  Mauritius and Djibouti have been working closely within the COMESA towards promoting 
effective regional integration and more importantly to expand regional trade and inter-African trade generally.  
3.5.  As small economies we share a lot of commonalities and are faced with similar challenges on 
several fronts including trade, investment and climate change. The services sector which contributes to over 70% of our GDP is set to play a more significant role in our future development. In this context, our two countries have been cooperating actively in the Freeport 
development sector and we look forward to exploring other areas of cooperation bilaterally. 
3.6.  Minister, as an African country, Mauritius wishes to express its full support for the progress 
made by Djibouti both from an economic stan dpoint and in relation to the implementation 
of instruments such as the aforementioned trade agreement. 
3.7.  For the period under review, Mauritius was faced with the daunting challenge of implementing 
the right policy mix to ensure an effective and e fficient response to global economic downturn and 
to pursue the economic reform programme which has been instituted by the Government in 2006.  
Implementation of the 2006 Economic Reform Programme  3.8.  The aim of the 2006 reforms were to attain fiscal consolidation, public sector efficiency, 
improve competitiveness, and enhance the investment climate leading to the democratization of 
the economy through participation and social inclusion. These trade reforms included important 
elements such as tariff liberalization, business facilitation and investment promotion and opening up Mauritius to foreign talents and expertise, amongst others. These reforms as we spelled out in 
our previous TPR were to chart a new course to wards more market-driven, transparent and rules 
based economic management. Trade reforms were effectively an important element of the core objectives that the Government tried to attain. 
3.9.  With the tariff liberalization programme, the Government eliminated all exemptions given to 
specific enterprises which led to a level playing field for all operators (whether for export or for domestic production). Duties on all industrial inputs have now been eliminated. Maximum tariff was brought down from 65% to 30%, and 79% of ta riff lines became duty free in 2006. This tariff 
liberalization has been pursued over the years and average tariffs have dropped from 6.6% in 
2000 to 2.3% in 2014. As mentioned earlier, 88.87% of tariff lines are zero rated in Mauritius. 
3.10.  A Business Facilitation (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act was enacted in 2006 with a view to 
charting a new course towards modernizing the country by eliminating bureaucracy procedures 
that impede new enterprise development and to provide a new business environment focused on a 
growing absence of preferences to embrace glob al competitiveness. The new legal framework 
allowed businesses to start operations within three working days on the basis of self-adherence to 
guidelines. In addition, a single occupation permit comprising both work and residence permits WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  were introduced for foreigners under pre-esta blished criteria for the following categories: 
investors, self-employed and professionals. A schem e was also introduced for retired non-citizens 
who were issued with a residence permit. 
3.11.  To further improve the business environment by ensuring optimal conditions for economic 
activity, the Government also put in place the relevant framework to prevent restrictive business 
practices and over exploitation of market forces  to the detriment of consumers. The Competition 
Act was proclaimed in November 2009 and led to the establishment of the Competition 
Commission in Mauritius. The Director of the Commission is empowered to investigate restrictive 
business practices which could take the form of collusive agreements, mergers or abuse of monopoly position. 
3.12.  Sustainable and green growth is another priority for the Government. The Maurice Ile 
Durable Initiative was launched in 2008 and subsequently the MID Action Plan provided the 
framework for "green growth". The target is for 35% of energy to come from renewable sources by 2025 and to attain a reduced dependency on fo ssil fuels that would drop from 80% in 2009 to 
65% in 2025. 
3.13.  To further promote innovation and creativity, the Government has taken steps to overhaul 
its Intellectual Property Policy. In this regard, a new Copyright Act is being implemented as from 
this year which aim is to expand and improve copyright protection taking into account advances in 
information technology. The Copyright Act 2014 is fu lly compliant with the WIPO Copyrights Treaty 
and the WIPO Performances and Phonogram Treaty. It also provides quick remedies in case of 
infringement of authors, composers and copyright holders. 
3.14.  In addition, the Government has agreed to the creation of an empowered IP Office and an 
IP Council. An empowered Mauritius Intellectual Property Office is also expected to be created whose functions will go beyond registration of pa tents and trademarks and would also advise the 
Government on administration of IP laws, promote IP awareness and have a more important role 
in IP coordination and enforcement. The IP Council would facilitate interaction between institutions dealing with IP in view of achieving more cohe rence in the design and implementation of IP 
policies. 
3.15.  A new comprehensive Industrial Property Bill is currently being finalized. The draft Industrial 
Property Bill aims at addressing the lack of a holistic legislation dealing with all industrial property matters and will provide enhanced protection to all forms of IP. We are thankful to the WIPO for 
the technical expertise provided in drafting this legislation. 
3.16.  With a view to pursuing progress towards building a world-class investment climate, the 
2014 Budget contained two important measures: (i) fast-tracking of major projects; and 
(ii) speedy delivery of Building and Land Use Permit. As a result of this, a Fast Track Committee 
has been set up by the Government to expedite  the processing of all permits and approvals 
concerning major investment projects. Consequential amendments would be brought to relevant 
legislations and these measures are expected to lead to investment of some Rs 20 billion into new 
projects over the next few years.  
3.17.  The Business Facilitation Act will be further enhanced through the setting-up of a central 
e-monitoring system which will track all applications for building and land use permits. The 
required permits would be delivered within 14 days of submission of application. Past this deadline 
the Silent Agreement Principle will apply. 
Impact of reforms and the financial crisis  
3.18.  The 2006 reform programme as well as continuous policy reforms had been instrumental in 
building resilience against external economic shoc ks and supporting growth. The reforms have led 
to an increase in economic growth from 2.7% in 2005 to 5.7% in 2007 largely driven by Foreign 
Direct Investment. However, as many other sm all countries, we have been affected by the 
financial crisis and the global economic slowdown. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  3.19.  The country experienced a sharp decline in dema nd for tourism services and textile exports 
in recent years. There was also a contraction of the labour-intensive sectors, especially 
construction and the manufacturing sector, as the crisis made its way to Mauritius. 
3.20.  As a result, growth slowed to 5.5% in 2008 and then to 3.1% in 2009 while unemployment 
increased from 7.2% in 2008 to 7.3% in 2009. However, prudent macroeconomic management led 
to international reserves continuing to expand and the fiscal deficit was kept below 5% of GDP. The country's strategy for resilience was premised  on reforms to sustain long-term growth; timely, 
targeted, and temporary short-term response; inst itutional arrangements that promoted private 
sector collaboration; and strong relationships with development partners. 
Measures to address the 2008 crisis 3.21.  In response to the global financial crisis, Mauritius adopted two fiscal stimulus packages in 
2008 and 2009 and eased monetary policy. Fiscal packages were aimed at fast tracking and 
accelerating private investment, supporting SMEs and re-skilling of workers. The Mechanism for Transitional Support Program of 2009 was adopted to support private firms facing financial 
difficulties. A Tax Suspension Programme was also introduced for the labour-intensive and 
vulnerable tourism, construction, and real estate sectors. Monetary policy in Mauritius was also made more flexible to complement fiscal policy with the key repo rate being kept at a level 
sufficient to ensure economic buoyancy. 
3.22.  In 2008, the Government introduced offsetting measures that are expected to bring the 
primary budget into surplus and a Public Debt Management Act was adopted to limit public sector debt to 60% of GDP: the ultimate goal would be to reduce the public sector debt to 50% of GDP 
by 2018.  
3.23.  Additional measures were taken in 2010 du e to the global economic slowdown. The 
Economic Restructuring and Competitiveness Programme (ERCP) included around 100 policy 
measures aimed at shifting export growth to new markets, restructuring and deleveraging 
enterprises, retraining retrenched workers, u pgrading public infrastructure and improving the 
regulatory environment for competitiveness. 
3.24.  As a result of fiscal stimulus packages and expansionary monetary policy, Mauritius has 
been able to show certain resilience to the cris is of 2008 and to the global economic slowdown. 
The economy was in the way a recovering in 2010 with a growth of 4.2% and subsequently, growth rates in 2011 and 2012 reached 3.6% and 3.4% respectively. Growth figures for 2013 
have been revised downwards due to the prolon ged slowdown in the euro zone area which 
accounts for 60% of our exports. However, growth is expected to rebound to 4.1% in 2015 on the assumption that the worst of the crisis is behind us.  
Economic resilience  
3.25.  The economy's relative resilience can also be demonstrated by the performance of key 
sectors as well as by the sound performance of key macroeconomic indicators. In 2013, the 
economy was driven by the performance of the te rtiary sector, namely financial services, ICT, 
wholesale and retail trade. Financial services benefitted from strong performance in banking 
services. Tourist arrivals from countries like China, Russia and Africa made up for the slowdown in the Eurozone tourists. FDI which stood at Rs 9.5 billion for the year 2013 is still estimated at 
around 4% of GDP.  
3.26.  Since the financial services sector is a strong driver of growth, we aim at enhancing our 
track record as a reformer. Mauritius subscribed to the IMF' Special Data Dissemination Standard 
(SDDS) in February 2012 and is the second Sub-Saharan African country to do so.  
3.27.  Mauritius is also committed to achieve fiscal sustainability to help address external sector 
vulnerabilities. Public debt as has been mentioned remains within the limit of 60% of GDP. The IMF 
Article IV Consultations of 2014 concluded that ne ar-term growth outlook is generally favourable 
and that 50% debt of GDP ratio target by 2018 was achievable.  WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  3.28.  The result of the economic reform programme can best be assessed in terms of the various 
rankings achieved by Mauritius internationally. 
3.29.  Mauritius was ranked 20th in the Ease of Doing Business of the World Bank for the year 
2014. It is thus among the top 20 countries globally in terms of "starting a business", "paying 
taxes", "protecting investors" and "trading across borders".  
3.30.  In terms of economic freedom, Mauritius ranks 5th in the world while on the Forbes survey 
of Best Countries for Business, Mauritius is in the 29th position globally. Recently, Mauritius has 
been ranked as the top competitive economy on the African continent. 
3.31.  On account of our strong governance institutions based on the rule of law the Mo Ibrahim 
Index of African Governance has graded Mauritius as the highest performer on the continent for the 8
th consecutive year. 
New pillars of growth  
3.32.  The aim of the Government now is to expand and diversify the economic base by developing 
new economic pillars, especially as the traditional sectors of the economy namely the sugar sector 
and the textiles industry are confronted with se rious challenges. Indeed, with the abolition of 
internal EU sugar quotas in 2017, the price of suga r is expected to experience drastic cuts coupled 
with increased production within the EU which may crowd out third country imports such as from 
Mauritius. Exports of manufactured products have also been affected due to economic slowdown in 
our main markets, namely in the UK and France. 
3.33.  In this regard, particular emphasis is bein g placed on transforming the economy into a 
service-based economy with the development of new sectors such as education and wellness 
industry, knowledge hub, the development of the ocean economy and the development of 
Mauritius into an aviation and petroleum hub for the region. 
Africa strategy 
3.34.  Africa, to which Mauritius belongs, remains one of our key economic priorities. An Africa 
strategy on how we can better support our African countries and the region and the continent as a whole is now partly being implemented. As a member of SADC and COMESA Free Trade Areas, 
Mauritius has eliminated tariffs and is committed to the removal to non-tariff barriers. It is also 
actively participating in the COMESA-SADC-EAC Tripartite negotiations which aim at creating a Free Trade Area by year 2015. We host the COMESA Infrastructure Fund aimed a facilitating development of trade related regional infrastructure and the Bank of Mauritius has been 
designated as the settlement bank for COMESA.  
3.35.  To facilitate movement of people, personnel in the region and our businesses, Mauritius has, 
in 2012, eased visa requirements for nationals of 29 countries in Africa. Furthermore, as part of its 
contribution towards strengthening regional integration, Mauritius has agreed to host the Regional 
Multi-disciplinary Centre of Excellence to assist in the formulation and implementation of regional economic development policy, the IMF AFRITAC South and IMF's Training Institute for Africa. 
AFRITAC South provides technical assistance in macroeconomic management for Southern African 
countries. The Africa Training Institute, in the other hand, provides high level training in macroeconomic issues for Sub-Saharan countries. The institutions seek to position the country as a regional and international knowledge hub. 
3.36.  Since the 2013 Budget, Mauritius has been pursuing an expanded Africa Strategy aimed at 
encouraging Mauritian operators to do business in the region. This include the creation of the Mauritius-Africa Fund for participation in equity financing of businesses investing in Africa, 
providing support on freight cost of containers and a Credit Guarantee Insurance Scheme for 
exports to Africa, as well as Scholarships Scheme for 50 African students.  WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  Trade facilitation  
3.37.  The period under review has also seen significant improvements to our infrastructure and 
appropriate trade facilitation measures with a view to reduce transaction costs. The Airport of Mauritius has been enlarged and modernized to cope with growing passenger traffic which has 
grown at an average rate of 2.7% annually. Some  3 million passengers are expected by the end of 
2014. The Government intends to build upon the recent overhaul at the airport to make the 
aviation industry a new pillar of the Mauritian economy. 
3.38.  Similarly, port development is being carried out with a view to positioning the Port Louis 
harbour as a regional maritime, logistics and business hub. The 2014 budget projects a total investment of some Rs 3.7 billion in port development with an additional Rs 2.8 billion over the next two years. 
3.39.  Significant measures have also been implem ented by Mauritius Customs with a view to 
enhancing the framework through which trade is cond ucted. The most important aspect is that we 
have a Paperless Customs whereby copies of trade documents can be submitted electronically for 
clearance. The final objective is to have a dedicated component as part of the Single Window 
Project whereby there would be online submission, processing and approval of permits and other 
authorisations related to import and ex port, including the payment of fees.  
3.40.  As part of our commitment towards more transparency in trade and for lowering transaction 
costs, we have submitted our notification of Category A measures under the Trade Facilitation Agreement which forms part of the Bali Package.  We are currently assessing the cost of our 
implementation needs and would soon approach our traditional development partners and the 
donor community for technical and financial support. Whilst the Trade Facilitation Facility set up by 
the WTO would address the soft infrastructure needs, my delegation wishes to stress the need for a holistic support to both soft and hard infrastructure needs. Capacity building development within 
the region remains a priority and the Regional Multidisciplinary Centre of Excellence of Mauritius 
can be used by the WTO and other specialized agencies to address capacity building needs for Africa. 
Market diversification  
3.41.  Diversification of our markets also ranks among our top priorities and measures are being 
taken to consolidate traditional markets which still account for some 80% of our exports. We have in this regard concluded an Interim Economic Partnership Agreement with the EU and are fully 
committed to concluding an ambitious and compre hensive Economic Partnership Agreement. We 
look forward to the extension of the AGOA which is set to expire in 2015 as the hallmark of 
US-Africa economic and trade relations.  
3.42.  Our efforts at market diversification have led to the conclusion of a Free Trade Agreement 
with Turkey and Preferential Trade Area (PTA) with Pakistan. A PTA with India has also been 
concluded as part of a comprehensive agreement bu t it has not been signed yet. We stand ready 
to negotiate a new generation of Economic and Trade Partnership Agreements with any WTO 
Member willing to do so.   
3.43.  Mauritius is a firm believer in the Multilateral Trading System and will continue to participate 
actively in the current Doha Round of Trade Negotiations towards its successful conclusion. We 
believe in a multilateral trading system that is transparent and inclusive and the Bali outcomes 
injected a dose of optimism for all of us. We look forward to the finalization of the Work Programme to conclude the DDA. In this context, we would like to call for special attention to be 
given to the needs of the Small Island Deve loping States (SIDS) which have inherent 
vulnerabilities. This request has been made from the first Trade Policy Review of Mauritius in 1995 
and we have pointed out a number of times the diff iculties Mauritius faces both as an NFIDCs, a 
net food importer, a small economy and a SIDS.  
3.44.  It is also our ardent wish that the specific situation of SIDS which translates into severe 
constraints to development is adequately captured in the negotiated outcomes of the Doha Round and that we become recognized as a distinct category. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  Conclusion  
3.45.  As indicated, significant changes have occurred in the Mauritian economy in the last six 
years. Mauritius is now gearing for its other challenge: the transformation of Mauritius into a High Income Country. This will not be easy given our inherent vulnerabilities and will required deep 
structural changes, especially the consolidation of new growth drivers; addressing remaining 
infrastructure deficiencies, skills mismatch; existing bottlenecks in the economy and also higher productivity and innovation. We remain confident that with the help of international partners we 
can take the country to a higher growth path and to further its transformation. 
3.46.  I thank you for your kind attention and I would like to thank the Secretariat for its support 
in making this Trade Policy Review possible. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  4  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT 
4.1.  I would like to start by joining you in welcoming His Excellency Mr Hassan Ahmed Boulaleh, 
Minister Delegate for Trade of Djibouti, Her Excellency Mrs Usha Dwarka-Canabady, Secretary for Foreign Affairs of Mauritius, the distinguished members of their delegations and the other 
delegations attending this meeting. 
4.2.  It is an honour to take part as the discussant in the second review of Djibouti's trade policy 
and the fourth review of Mauritius. Your opening statement, Madam Chairperson, the detailed 
presentations given by the senior officials accompanying us and the outstanding reports prepared 
by the two governments and the WTO Secretariat provide a good basis for our discussions this morning. 
DJIBOUTI 
4.3.  I shall begin by reviewing developments in the trade policies of Djibouti since the country's 
previous trade policy review in April 2006. It should be recalled that, at the time, 
Members highlighted the reforms carried out by Djibouti with a view to improving its trade and 
investment framework and diversifying its economy. Mention was also made of the importance of 
strengthening the legal system in order to increase  its transparency and predictability - both key 
elements in boosting fo reign investment flows. 
Economic environment 
4.4.  In 2006, the challenges facing Djibouti's economy mainly involved diversifying the economy, 
which was highly concentrated in the services sector, which, overall, accounted for 87% of GDP, reducing the unemployment rate, which stood at  around 60%, and increasing the country's 
capacity to attract foreign direct investment. 
4.5.  The country's economy performed well during the period under review, with growth rates 
above 4.5% and inflation under control, except  in 2012. Although the global economic and 
financial crisis at the end of the decade impacted foreign direct investment flows and growth rates, 
this did not hinder Djibouti's increasingly thriving economy. 
4.6.  As was noted at the time of the previous review, Djibouti remains a services-led economy in 
which port activities are still the main economic driver, and it is moving ahead in consolidating its 
position as a regional transport and transhipment hub. This contributed to the increase in foreign direct investment inflows as of 2012, especially those from Persian Gulf countries, which have also gone to other sectors albeit in smaller amounts. 
4.7.  Djibouti's overriding challenge still appears to be the diversification of its production system, 
which in turn will generate employment. The reports show a number of sectors with major development potential in the years to come, such as fishing, telecommunications, transport and 
logistics services and tourism, to which I plan to refer later on. They also highlight various projects 
relevant to the country's economic prospects such as the building of port infrastructure to export 
salt and potash, and the construction of a new railway line between Djibouti and Ethiopia as well 
as a new airport complex. 
4.8.  The country's authorities are already working towa rds that goal. In 2010, Djibouti adopted its 
National Trade Development Strategy (SNDC), which has led, inter alia , to the adoption of a new 
Commercial Code, institutional reforms to strengthen the dialogue with the private sector, and 
various trade facilitation measures - this being an extremely important area for a country whose 
international trade accounts for more than 90% of GDP. 
4.9.  Diversification of the economy and regional integration are among the pillars of the 
"Djibouti Vision 2035" initiative. The new National Trade Development Strategy (SNDC 2) under 
preparation will include components on regional integration, market regulation, trade facilitation, private-sector development and tourism. Given the importance of the new National Trade 
Development Strategy for the country's future deve lopment, it would be interesting to hear about WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  Djibouti's experiences with the first National Tr ade Development Strategy and what is the current 
state of progress in developing the new strategy. 
4.10.  A significant challenge for the country lies in its capacity to increase and diversify FDI 
inflows. Progress in improving the business enviro nment was noted during the review period, with 
the creation of the industrial and commercial property office, the single window and other facilities. 
These have enabled Djibouti to score several points in the Doing Business  report, since they have 
reduced the time needed to start a business, for example. 
4.11.  It would be interesting to learn what other reforms Djibouti is considering in order to 
improve the business climate and attract foreign investment, including those due to be incorporated in the new Investment Code und er preparation. UNCTAD has suggested a few 
regulatory improvements, which include matters relating to the treatment and protection of 
investment, the obligations of foreign investors and conditions governing the entry and 
establishment of FDI. In addition to the above, th ere is also the need to speed up the pace of the 
national privatization programme. 
Trade policies 
4.12.  As regards the country's trade policies, it should be recalled that Djibouti, as an original 
Member of the WTO, grants at least MFN treatment to all of its trading partners. The Government 
report emphasizes the country's support for the early conclusion of the Doha Round negotiations, 
the Bali package, and the Trade Facilitation Agreement in particular. 
4.13.  Djibouti's economy typically runs a deficit in goods and a surplus in services. Its leading 
export market is Ethiopia, and the European Union is its main source of imports. 
4.14.  Other trading partners, such as the COMESA count ries, have increased their shares in recent 
years, not only as a result of trade liberalization within the group but also and mainly thanks to the countries' trade facilitation efforts, which include the tracking of goods along the entire length of 
the Djibouti-Addis-South Sudan Corridor in real time. 
4.15.  Djibouti attaches great importance to its participation in the region's integration processes, 
which is reflected in the fifth pillar of its "D jibouti Vision 2035" initiative. The Government and 
Secretariat reports highlight major future challenges in this respect, and it would therefore be 
interesting to know more about the Government's outlook on the regional integration front. 
4.16.  One of the reforms noted in recent years is the adoption of the Customs Code in 2011. 
Since January 2013, Djibouti Customs has been using ASYCUDA World, which makes it easier to 
monitor customs operations electronically and control the collection of customs duties. This is an 
important step in trade facilitation, added to the electronic submission of all import declarations 
since 2005. 
4.17.  According to the report, Djibouti's customs offices have all been computerized and 
interconnected, and there is also an interconnection with Ethiopian Customs. The World Bank has ranked Djibouti 60
th out of 189 economies in terms of ease of trading across borders. 
4.18.  The report also indicates that Djibouti has no electronic risk management system and that 
physical inspection, according to the authorities, applies to around one third of imports. It would be useful to know what are Djibouti's criteria for risk management, particularly in view of the fact that the report also points out that the country has to contend with numerous cases 
of under-invoicing. 
4.19.  As regards tariffs, Djibouti uses the 2007 version of the Harmonized System (HS). As noted 
at the time of the previous review, the country ha s bound all of its tariff lines, and 98% of lines 
are bound at 40%. Only four lines are bound at the ceiling rate of 450%. 
4.20.  Djibouti levies value added tax, the internal consumption tax (TIC), excise duty, a special 
and a general solidarity tax, a tax on petroleum products and a business licence fee. As regards 
the TIC, it should be remembered that at the time of the previous review Members expressed WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  concern about its operation, as it is similar to a customs tariff because of the way in which it is 
applied and may in some cases lead to an increase above the bound rates. 
4.21.  Although it was hoped that VAT, introduced in 2008, would gradually replace the TIC, 
this has not yet occurred. In any case, we note that TIC levels have fallen sharply and that the 
simple average went from 28.2% in 2005 to 21% in 2013. 
4.22.  As regards intellectual property, Djibouti is a member of the World Intellectual Property 
Organization (WIPO) and a contracting party to the Paris Convention for the Protection 
of Industrial Property and the Berne Convention fo r the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works. 
There has been significant progress in this area, including new industrial property and copyright 
and related rights legislation. Djibouti has also signed the Beijing Treaty on Audiovisual Performances and the Marrakesh Treaty on access fo r the visually impaired to published materials 
protected by copyright. It would be interesting to  learn first-hand about the country's experience 
in implementing these new laws and international commitments. 
4.23.  Lastly, the Secretariat report indicates that Djibouti clearly continues to have difficulties in 
meeting its WTO notification obligations in various spheres. This review should provide 
an opportunity to identify the country's needs for technical assistance in training its officials to deal more efficiently with this matter, since the submission of timely and full notifications is a task 
of the utmost importance. 
Sectoral policies 4.24.  According to the Secretariat report, State-owned enterprises still play a significant role in 
the economy despite the Government's interest in  proceeding with the privatization programme. 
State-owned enterprises are engaged in sectors such as telecommunications, power generation, 
mining, transport and storage services and agro-industry. It would be interesting to identify the problems encountered in the privatization process and any actions that may be under 
consideration for the future. 
4.25.  As regards services, we note the far-reaching developments in the banking sector, where 
the number of established financial institutions has increased fivefold, partly owing to flexibilities in 
terms of capital movements. The Banking Law, issued in 2011, fixes a minimum capital 
requirement for financial institutions and provides for a banking supervision service. It should be emphasized that Djibouti has not undertaken any commitments on financial services under the GATS, although doing so could contribute to further development. 
4.26.  With regard to telecommunications, the report highlights rapid growth in fixed and mobile 
telephony, which can be further boosted by the ad option of a series of regulatory measures and 
fiscal improvements. Moving forward with privatization could also contribute to the expansion 
of the sector, and this in turn could lead to improvements in the telephone network. 
4.27.  Both the Government and the Secretariat reports highlight the key role played by transport 
services in the economy and note that various me asures are being implemented in order to pursue 
its development. In particular, the country need s not only to upgrade and expand its existing 
infrastructure but also to advance with the establishment of interconnectivity between the various means of transport in order to maximize the country's potential in this sphere. It will undoubtedly interest Members to know more about the activities planned for the coming years, including 
possible regulatory developments. 
4.28.  As regards tourism, we note the substantial increase in the number of tourists in recent 
years. Results achieved in the transport sector will be critical in maintaining this upward trend. 
Since the Government attaches primary importance to development of the sector, it would be 
useful to our discussion to know about the strategies foreseen in order to achieve that goal. 
4.29.  Both the agricultural and the mining sector have considerable potential for development. 
Fishing also has vast exploitable and job creation potential. However, we appreciate the needs in 
terms of infrastructure and workforce training in order to stimulate growth in these sectors. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  4.30.  Energy production costs, which place a considerable burden on the Government, are 
a significant factor in the economic diversification process. Although interconnection with Ethiopia 
has helped improve the situation, this is clearly a major structural obstacle that calls for further action. It would be very interesting to know what Djibouti's plans are in this respect with a view to 
increasing production and reducing costs, and to expand on the information provided by the 
Minister Delegate for Trade. 
MAURITIUS 
4.31.  I shall now turn to my presentation of the trad e policy review of Mauritius and will begin by 
acknowledging the reforms and initiatives carried out by the Government over the past six years in order to achieve a high standard of living in Mauritius and enable it to become a major and expanding economy in the region. 
Economic environment 
4.32.  During the period under review, the Mauritian economy performed well despite the global 
economic crisis and weak import demand from the European Union, its main trading partner. 
Thanks to its trade liberalization policies, the attraction of foreign investment, the strengthening 
of its services sector and sound macroeconomic policies, the country's GDP grew by 53% between 
2008 and 2013, at an average annual rate of 4%. Mauritius therefore has one of Africa's highest 
per capita GDPs, amounting to US$9,217. 
4.33.  A very strong institutional framework, sound fiscal policy, open markets, a flexible labour 
market and an appropriate monetary policy have helped Mauritius mitigate the effects of exchange-rate volatility and keep inflat ion under control. The country's improved 
competitiveness has made Mauritius Africa's most competitive economy, according to the 
World Economic Forum's latest report. 
Trade and investment 
4.34.  Mauritius is a goods- and services-oriented economy, with exports accounting for around 
50% of GDP. Its main foreign sales are clothing an d textiles, sugar products, travel and transport, 
and its leading markets are the European Union and the United States. 
4.35.  Global trade in goods rose by 26% between 2007 and 2013 as a result of increased imports, 
especially fuel imports, and a modest rise in  exports due to its buoyant clothing industry. 
4.36.  Despite its heavy dependence on trade with the European Union, we note that Mauritius 
increased its share of trade with Africa and Asia during the review period. It would be interesting 
to have further details on the strategies being developed by Mauritius in order to increase 
diversification and improve access to its markets, so as to avoid high export concentration and vulnerability to fluctuations in external demand. 
4.37.  According to the Secretariat report, the amount of foreign direct investment received by 
Mauritius between 2007 and 2012 almost doubled, especially in real estate and financial services. Foreign direct investment, particularly with a view to upgrading the country's air, maritime and 
land infrastructure, is expected to grow. 
4.38.  Mauritius, as an original Member of the WTO, has actively participated in the 
Doha Development Round, and it recently played a significant role in the negotiations that led to the signing of the Trade Facilitation Agreement in Bali. It has also led initiatives in the sphere 
of Aid for Trade. 
4.39.  Despite the country's good record in terms of notifications, a few remain outstanding and 
concern export subsidies and domestic support in agriculture, TRIPS enforcement, 
import licensing, regional agreements and quantitative restrictions. Given that transparency is the 
key tool for keeping abreast of Members' policies, it would be important to have an idea what measures Mauritius is planning to bring its outstanding notifications up to date. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  4.40.  As regards regional agreements, Mauritius is a member of COMESA2 and the SADC3 and has 
trade agreements with Pakistan, the European Union, Turkey and Madagascar. It is also eligible 
under the United States African Growth and Oppo rtunity Act (AGOA). As does Djibouti, it is 
participating in the work to develop a tripartite agreement between COMESA, the SADC and the 
EAC4, which aims to establish an expanded free trade area that may lead to a customs union. 
4.41.  Mauritius has a transparent and open investment regime. Since the previous review, it has 
amended its Investment Promotion Act in order to expedite the processing of permits for 
investment projects. In addition, foreign equity caps have been removed in the tourism sector and 
on car rental, travel agency and tour operator services in particular. 
4.42.  However, there is still room for improvement in some areas, particularly as regards 
restrictions on foreign equity participation in television broadcasting, sugar companies and diving 
centres. It would be interesting for Members to know more about whether the 
Mauritian Government is planning reforms in this respect, especially in order to ensure coherence 
with other promotion strategies proposed for these sectors. 
4.43.  Mauritius has been the region's top performer in terms of foreign investment, having made 
great strides in the business environment and trade facilitation. According to the World Bank's Doing Business  reports and the World Economic Forum, it also has strong and transparent financial 
institutions. 
Trade policies 4.44.  As regards customs procedures and customs valuation, we draw special attention to the 
progress achieved thanks to the TradeNet single  window system for the submission of customs 
declarations. This has improved communication  with the declarants and has reduced both 
processing times and costs. Other government agencies will gradually be integrated in the system so that all procedures can be completed through this platform. 
4.45.  Although Mauritius maintains an updated valuation database incorporating reference values, 
we note that there are still difficulties in id entifying real value in cases of undervaluation. 
4.46.  Mauritius recently adopted new economic liberalization and trade facilitation measures. 
These include tariff cuts, a reduction in import licensing and the dismantlement of various subsidy 
schemes. 
4.47.  As regards tariffs, Mauritius has significantly reduced the average applied rate, which fell 
from 6.6% in 2007 to 2.3% in 2014. Nearly 90% of its tariff lines are duty free. However, we note 
that some articles of clothing are subject to tariffs as high as 488%. 
4.48.  Mauritius has bound only 17.6% of its tariff lines in the WTO and the bound rates are 
relatively high, especially in light of the current applied tariff. 
4.49.  As a result of the liberalization process carried out by Mauritius, customs duties are 
an ever-decreasing source of government revenue, while revenue from other taxes, such as VAT and excise duties, has risen. 
4.50.  As regards taxes, measures aimed at protecting the environment under the 
"Maurice Ile Durable" project include lower levies on products that help reduce CO
2 emissions, 
and a levy is collected on energy-inefficient household appliances. It is also useful to know that sustainable economic growth projects will also include measures that could have an impact on 
foreign trade regulations and standards. 
4.51.  In the intellectual property sphere, Mauritius is expected to embark on an intellectual 
property development plan, and it is hoped that  the necessary regulatory reforms for which it 
provides will help promote innovative and inventive endeavours in a transparent manner. 
                                               
2 Common Market For Eastern and Southern Africa. 
3 Southern African Development Community. 
4 East African Community. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  Measures under this plan include the passing of a new Copyright Act this year, trademark and 
patent bills, and reforms to the IP institutional framework. Mauritius is also expected to submit to 
the WTO its checklist of issues on en forcement under the TRIPS Agreement. 
Sectoral policies 
4.52.  Agricultural production in Mauritius is highly concentrated on sugar, tobacco, milk and 
expanding rice production. Efforts are being made to  diversify the production of sugar cane so that 
it can be used to generate electricity and ethanol. 
4.53.  The Government intervenes in the agricultural sector through the Agricultural Marketing 
Board and the State Trading Corporation, whose activities include price regulation, procurement and importation of agricultural products. This is an area in which notifications should move ahead. 
4.54.  As regards manufacturing, the leading export items are still in the clothing industry and in 
sugar, tobacco and textile manufacturing, and are destined for the European Union in particular. 
4.55.  As to services, we emphasize the sustained contribution of financial services to GDP, 
thanks to sound asset and portfolio management by the banks. 
4.56.  We note the Government's objective to promote the ICT sector as a major pillar of the 
economy and turn the country into a regional hub. 
4.57.  We also note that the Government is looking to attract investment to develop port and 
airport infrastructure, which will have a spin-off ef fect on policies aimed at promoting Mauritius as 
a world-class tourist destination. Tourism services are one of the most promising sectors of the Mauritian economy. 
4.58.  This brings me to the end of the main points that I wished to raise in my statement. 
Members have highlighted other areas of interest that will be discussed in the course 
of this review. 
4.59.  I would like to conclude by congratulating the authorities of Djibouti and Mauritius on their 
good performance since the previous review of their countries' trade policies. 
4.60.  In Djibouti's case, there are still major challenges ahead, particularly in terms of economic 
diversification, but the Government has opted for the trade facilitation route and the creation 
of better business conditions as a basis on which to promote new sectoral developments, improve 
the country's integration in the global economy, and raise the standards of living of its population. I urge the authorities to continue moving forward along this path. 
4.61.  Mauritius has good economic prospects which suggest that the growth trend observed in 
previous years will continue, thanks to a production sector that will become increasingly 
competitive as result of the various programmes geared towards economic diversification, appropriate environmental management, regional integration and a stronger services sector. 
4.62.  This concludes my statement, and I thank you for your attention. My only complaint is that 
I have not yet had occasion to visit these two countries which have so much to offer. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  5  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS 
UNITED  STATES 
5.1.  As we have heard, both Djibouti and Mauritius are members of the Common Market for 
Eastern Africa (COMESA), and were among the first countries to implement the COMESA free trade 
area. The United States has been a long-time supporter and advocate for regional integration in 
sub-Saharan Africa, and applauds these two COMESA member States for their efforts to break down barriers to trade and investment within sub-Saharan Africa. 
5.2.  The United States and COMESA signed a Trade and Investment Framework in 2000, to 
enhance engagement with the COMESA Secretariat and COMESA member States in order to increase U.S.-COMESA trade as well as to suppo rt greater intra-African trade within COMESA. 
Therefore we are very pleased that these two COMESA member States are conducting their trade 
policy review simultaneously so that we can focus not only on the steps that these two Members 
are taking individually to improve their trade and investment regimes but also steps that both countries are taking to foster greater regional integration and trade within Africa. 
5.3.  The United States' commitment to assisting developing countries to use trade as an engine of 
economic growth is demonstrated by our extens ive trade preference programs, as well as our 
trade capacity building programs designed to assist developing and least developed countries to 
take advantage of our preference programs. Both Djibouti and Mauritius are eligible for U.S. 
preference programs including the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) and our 
Generalized System of Preferences (GSP). The United States is committed to AGOA renewal, and the U.S. Administration and Congress are workin g together to make this happen. We encourage 
both Djibouti and Mauritius to work with the United States and other partners to develop strategies 
for ensuring that they are taking full advantage of the opportunities presented by AGOA and GSP. 
5.4.  Djibouti has been a leader in demonstrating how effective trade facilitation measures and 
investment in infrastructure can support economic growth and development not only domestically 
but also in neighbouring countries. The deep-water port of Djibouti, which straddles the juncture of sea routes between the Asia, the Middle East, Afri ca, and Europe, is critical not only for the 
country of Djibouti, but also for neighbouring co untries, such as Ethiopia. Djibouti's role as a 
regional transportation hub presents many opportunities in transportation services and other tertiary services such as finance. We commend the progress that Djibouti has made in improving 
its trading environment, including the upgrading of its customs systems and efforts to facilitate the 
establishment of new businesses. Given the import ance of logistics to Djibouti's economy, we 
would encourage Djibouti to continue to prioritize trade facilitation reforms.   
5.5.  We would also encourage Djibouti to focus on ensuring that it is fulfilling its WTO notification 
obligations. Proper notifications to the WTO by all Members are critical to ensuring that there is 
transparency and predictability in the internationa l trading system. We also encourage Djibouti to 
further liberalize its economy, including by privatizing State-owned enterprises.   
5.6.  Turning to Mauritius, we note that the United States and Mauritius enjoy a constructive 
bilateral relationship in which trade and investment play a major role. Our Governments continue to consult bilaterally under the Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) that we signed in 2006. The TIFA has provided opportunities fo r Mauritius and the United States to explore 
common objectives on a regular basis, including our participation and cooperation in the WTO. 
5.7.  Mauritius has clearly taken advantage of the U.S. preference programs to which it is a 
beneficiary. In 2013, the value of U.S. imports from Mauritius under AGOA and GSP was 
US$200 million, representing nearly 60% of U.S. tota l imports from Mauritius. While much of this 
trade was concentrated in the apparel sector, we note significant diversification forces at work, particularly in the diamond, seafood processing, ey ewear, and jewellery sectors. The United States 
is pleased that AGOA has sparked substantial investment in Mauritius. 
5.8.  We note that Mauritius maintains a market-based economy with a strong, dynamic private 
sector, elements that have proved time and ag ain to hold the key to economic prosperity. 
Mauritius ranks 20th out of 189 countries in terms of the ease of doing business in 2014 according WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  to the World Bank's Doing Business report. Mauritius is one of the most prosperous countries in 
sub-Saharan Africa, with a GDP per capita of US$9,500 in 2013. 
5.9.  Mauritius maintains fairly low tariffs and a relatively open trade regime. We believe that there 
is a clear connection between the level of prosperity  that Mauritius has been able to obtain and its 
clear focus on developing strong institutions and maintaining a liberal and transparent trade 
regime. We also commend Mauritius for its efforts to pursue trade facilitation reforms, as demonstrated by its timely and ambitious Category A notification submitted to the Preparatory 
Committee on Trade Facilitation (PCTF). The importance of the signal this sends cannot be 
overstated, particularly at this time of uncertainty in the WTO. 
5.10.  We encourage Mauritius to submit the outsta nding WTO notifications identified in the 
Secretariat's report, and to reform its import permi tting system to ensure that the system is used 
only for purposes of consumer protection, health , and safety reasons and not for blocking foreign 
competition in key sectors such as poultr y, pork, and other agricultural products. 
5.11.  The United States greatly appreciates the opport unity to participate in this review of both 
Djibouti's and Mauritius's trade policy regime and looks forward to continuing our dialogue and our 
constructive work with both governments. 
CANADA 
Mauritius 
5.12.  We welcome the efforts made by Mauritius to become one of Africa's foremost locations for 
doing business. We recognize its vast potential for economic growth and the opportunities for expanding our limited bilateral trade relationship, particularly considering the strong cultural ties 
of the Mauritian community in Canada. 
5.13.  We recognize the on-going diversification of the Mauritian economy and encourage the 
Mauritian Government to continue its efforts in fiscal adjustment and structural reforms to ensure 
continued growth. We also believe that Mauritian efforts to increase their intra-regional trade with 
the African continent will help to build more stability and encourage inclusiveness in their economy.  
5.14.  The Mauritian Government's prioritization of education as a means to combat poverty and 
social exclusion is commendable. Canada is committed to improving international collaboration in higher education and recognizes the importance of research and innovation in advancing sustainable economic growth and poverty reduction. We look forward to furthering the relationship 
between our two countries through greater academic collaboration and student mobility. 
5.15.  We are keenly following the developments in intellectual property rights in Mauritius, 
including the creation of the Mauritius Intellectual Property Office. Intellectual property protection 
is important for Canadian companies and it is very encouraging to see the Government of 
Mauritius focusing on this issue. We would be ha ppy to hear a report of its plans and progress on 
this project. 
5.16.  We are pleased to note that Mauritius was among the earliest to notify its Category A 
commitments for the Trade Facilitation Agreement.  We would like to commend Mauritius for its 
participation in the negotiations on the expansion of the WTO Information Technology Agreement and for the ambition it has shown in that contex t. We look forward to continue working with 
Mauritius on the ITA expansion and hope for a resumption and conclusion of the negotiations 
shortly.   
5.17.  As a fellow maritime nation, Canada believes that there are many areas for potential 
collaboration as Mauritius builds its ocean economy. Canadians would be happy to share our 
expertise in managing our oceanic resources in an environmentally sustainable manner in areas such as seabed exploration, ports, transportation infrastructure and fisheries management.   WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  5.18.  We believe that Mauritius' strong economic growth and good governance go hand-in-hand 
and we look forward to seeing Mauritius' trade continue to expand and hope to grow our 
relationship, both commercially and culturally, into the future. 
Djibouti 
5.19.  We congratulate Djibouti for its stable economic growth and its endeavours to create 
a favourable environment for doing business, which include completion of an arrangement under the Extended Credit Facility. We can see major opportunities for developing our bilateral relations, 
especially given Djibouti's active diaspora in Canada. 
5.20.  We note the rise in Djibouti's economic activi ty, boosted by major inflows of foreign direct 
investment, which has contributed to GDP growth in recent years. We urge the Government of Djibouti to continue diversifying the economy, increasing competitiveness and 
contributing to regional stability. 
5.21.  We note Djibouti's vision to develop as a regional "entrepôt" and welcome their engagement 
in regional integration efforts such as Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA). 
We encourage the Government of Djibouti to consider liberalization in key supportive sectors such 
as telecommunications and financial services in its efforts to reach this goal. Further improvements in customs clearance procedures and related timetables would also be beneficial. 
5.22.  We note the high cost of electricity in Djibouti, notwithstanding the recent interconnection 
agreement between Djibouti and Ethiopia, and woul d encourage the Government of the Republic of 
Djibouti to consider removing the existing monopoly in this sector. 
5.23.  Canada endorses the further elimination of barriers to trade and believe that this process 
will act to spur economic growth in Djibouti and promote good governance.  
5.24.  We are also following the process of Djiboutian democratization and, in the spirit of 
constructive engagement, Canada encourages increased promotion and protection of human rights 
in Djibouti. 
5.25.  Canadians hope to see Djibouti's economy contin ue to expand and we look forward to being 
a part of that economic growth. 
5.26.  Canada, Mauritius and Djibouti are members of the "Organisation internationale de 
la francophonie". Canada appreciates the role played by Mauritius and Djibouti in this organization, and we hope to pursue our cooperation in various multilateral frameworks. We wish both delegations every success. 
CHINA 
Djibouti 5.27.  China is pleased to note that in spite of the global economic crisis, the economic growth of 
Djibouti generally follows a strong upward trend during most of the review period. The fast growth 
of foreign direct investment and port activities are the major contributors to the economic growth, which are bolstered by Djibouti's wise decision to improve business climate and attract foreign 
investors. China is informed that the several framework documents have been issued, among 
which the most important are Djibouti Vision 2035 and National Trade Development Strategy. China particularly commends the single-window project established to improve paperless procedures and reduce trade cost. China encour ages Djibouti to formulate more concrete 
measures in accordance with those framework to  promote economic growth, enhance sustainable 
development and achieve trade policy goals.  
5.28.  On the bilateral front, China and Djibouti enjo y very close economic ties. Bilateral trade has 
been going at a fast and steady pace. Merchandise trade has doubled during the review period, 
reaching more than US$1 billion in 2013. China ha s granted zero-tariff treatment for the products 
originating from Djibouti since 2010, and that propor tion will be further increased to 97% starting WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  from next year. We hope this measure will further improve the market access for Djibouti products 
in Chinese market. At the same time, Chinese enterprises also increase their investment in 
Djibouti, in particular the investment in Djibouti Port and Assal Lake development project.  
5.29.  On the multilateral front, China commend the positive role of Djibouti in highlighting the 
importance of the multilateral trading system and by aligning its position with the African Group, 
the ACP countries and the LDCs in the Doha round. China agrees with Djibouti that the Doha round should achieve balanced and development-oriented results, in particular in the areas of export 
interests for the LDCs. China shares with Djibouti that the current impasse should be resolved as 
early as possible to let the developing members enjoy the benefits from trade liberalization. China also welcomes the latest principle document from  the ACP Group on defining the Post-Bali Work 
Program, which could work as a useful basis for future work. China looks forward to cooperating 
with Djibouti in the next few months for a detailed and balanced work program and eventually a 
successful conclusion of the whole Round. 
Mauritius 
5.30.  China is pleased to note that Mauritius has witnessed remarkable economic progress during 
the review period, which, as stated in the Secretariat Report, is mainly attributed to the implementation of its ambitious economic and trade reform programs. As an island country with 
limited natural resources, Mauritius should be commended for having taken a wide range of 
measures to create opportunities for growth and investment, including the introduction of the Africa Strategy, the development of infrastructure, the launch of sustainable MID Action Plan and the facilitation of trade and investment, just to name a few.  
5.31.  As the saying goes, "God created Mauritius first, and then made a copy which he called 
Heaven". In addition to the natural landscape, Mauritius has been ranked globally as the 20th 
most attractive place to do business and the most competitive African country in World Bank Doing 
Business Database. Having said that, we believe that there is still room for improvement. I just 
want to highlight two:  
 First, fragile external/global economic conditions remain an important challenge for 
 Mauritius, in particular the changes in economic and financial situations in euro area.  
 Second, Mauritius is also confronted with high external balances and low saving rates, 
 calling for economic rebalancing from consumption towards investment and trade.  
5.32.  We call upon Mauritius to undertake necessary domestic reforms and further open-up to 
register itself as the door to African continent.  
5.33.  On the bilateral front, China and Mauritius enjoy very close economic ties. Bilateral trade 
has been growing at a fast and steady pace. Merchandise trade has doubled during the review 
period, reaching US$6.600 million in 2013. Moreover, Chinese tourists have been the major driver 
for the buoyant Mauritian tourism sector. According to the Mauritian Statistical Authorities, in the first half of this year, Chinese tourists to Mauritius have increased by 87% year-on-year. 
Meanwhile, Chinese enterprises are also exploring investment opportunities in Mauritius in sectors 
such as infrastructure, transportation, seafood processing and so on. As the largest trading partner of Africa, China is willing to strengthen its cooperation with African countries in all areas through China-Africa Cooperation Forum, and we are fully confident that Mauritius will also benefit from 
this win-win cooperation. 
5.34.  On the multilateral front, China commends the positive role of Djibouti and Mauritius in the 
multilateral trading system and the Doha Round by aligning its position with the African Group and 
the ACP countries. China shares with those Groups that the current impasse should be resolved as 
early as possible to let the developing Members enjoy the benefits from trade liberalization. China also welcomes the latest principle document from  the ACP Group on defining the Post-Bali Work 
Program, which could work as a useful basis for future work. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  EUROPEAN  UNION 
Djibouti 
5.35.  Despite the major constraints that the economy faces, Djibouti has carried out important 
reforms since its last TPR in 2006 and has resisted the financial crisis relatively well with a growth 
of about 5% in 2013. However, the challenges re main serious in particular given the level of 
poverty that continues to be unsustainably high and the weaknesses in the infrastructure that create real bottlenecks for further development. 
5.36.  Djibouti, in its Government report, indicates that a new trade policy strategy is under 
development. The EU welcomes these efforts and considers that this TPR could be a good opportunity for the authorities to receive useful inputs for the strategy, notably because of the importance of trade for Djibouti, representing 94% of its GDP.  
5.37.  Djibouti's trade to the EU is covered by the "Everything But Arms" initiative which makes its 
exports (except for arms) duty-free and quota-free  to the EU. Regarding aid, the EU under the 
European Development Fund has committed €66 million during the period 2008-2013 mainly in 
the areas of water, sanitation and energy as well as food security. 
5.38.  In its advance questions to Djibouti, the EU has asked how the Government intends to 
improve the mechanisms for coordination in order to enhance the consistency of the policies 
adopted and the consultations with all stakeholders. The last TPR had stressed the importance of 
rationalising taxation and the EU is interested to know the intentions of the Government in this regard. Regarding the conclusions of the last TPR on  the role of the State in the economy, the EU 
would appreciate more information on the degree of opening considered for the 
telecommunications services and the reforms that ma y be foreseen in the area of energy. The EU 
also notes that reforms are ongoing in order to facilitate FDI inflows and entrepreneurship, such as the "guichet unique", and would be interested to know what other measures are under 
consideration by the Government to facilitate FDI in sectors where the Secretariat has identified a 
potential for growth or a need for more investment (for example agriculture, fisheries, salt, infrastructure). 
Mauritius 
5.39.  Regarding Mauritius, the EU shares the Secretariat's views that the economy continues 
developing remarkably and that the country punches well above its weight due to its determination to pursue a sustainable integration into the world economy and its forward looking approaches. 
The EU noted with interest the concept of "ocean economy" that the Government intends to 
develop and is keen to know more about this concept.  
5.40.  The Government has set an important objective, which is to make the country evolve from a 
middle income economy to a High Income Country within the next ten years. Trade is certainly an 
important factor in this effort as it represents about 115% of the GDP. During the period of review 
since 2008, Mauritius has further integrated not only into the world economy but also made 
considerable progress regionally. Let me highlight the active role that Mauritius has been playing 
in recent years in the WTO and notably to their timely notification of the Category A commitments under the Trade Facilitation Agreement. 
5.41.  The EU is the first destination of Mauritius exports (57%) and the second source of imports 
(22%). The interim Economic Partnership Agreem ent is in application which leads to 100% of 
Mauritius exports currently enter into the EU ma rkets without any duties. The EU has provided 
assistance to support the country's economic and social objectives under the 10th EDF with about 
€64 million and has also provided €279 million of Budget Accompanying Measures for the Sugar 
protocol.   
5.42.  In its advance written questions, the EU has raised the following issues such as the 
clarification of the mandate of enterprises manage d by the State but which have not been notified 
as STEs, economic integration perspectives in the region, notification perspectives for subsidies, WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  TBT and SPS related legislation, the scope of the new legislative framework in the competition area 
and the perspectives regarding further opening of public procurement to international operators. 
5.43.  In conclusion, let me reiterate that the EU acknowledges the progress that the two countries 
have made since their last reviews and is confident that the current exercise will help Djibouti and 
Mauritius in further developing their respective policies so as to ensure that they are most 
favourable for attaining their economic objectives while respecting their international commitments in this forum. The EU wishes to the two delegations successful reviews. 
BRAZIL 
Djibouti 5.44.  B r a z i l  r e c o g n i z e s  t h i s  c o u n t r y ' s  l e v e l  o f  g r o w t h  w a s  s o m e w h a t  a f f e c t e d  b y  t h e  g l o b a l  
economic crisis. We congratulate Djibouti for th e positive economic growth recorded in 2012 and 
sincerely hope it will continue to improve.  
5.45.  My delegation would like to point out the initiative to establish a National Trade Negotiations 
Committee, which will contribute to strengthen Djibouti's presence in regional and international 
trade. We also note with satisfaction the efforts made within the framework of the National Trade 
Development Strategy, as well as the results al ready achieved, such as the upgrading of the 
software used by Customs and the improvement of statistics.  
Mauritius 
5.46.  My delegation congratulates the country for its economic performance in the period under 
review, an important achievement, particularly in light of a weaker import demand from the European Union, Mauritius main export market. It is to be noted that, despite the global economic 
crisis and the decline of preferential access to foreign markets, Mauritius maintained an average 
GDP growth of 4%. Furthermore, Mauritius is rank ed in the category of high human development 
countries, according to the Human Development Index.  
5.47.  Brazil would also like to recognize the efforts that have been made by Mauritius to facilitate 
and improve trade flows, such as the reduction of  customs clearance times, the launching of an 
Authorized Economic Operator program and the introduction of a new appeal mechanism for 
custom-related disputes. 
PERU Mauritius 5.48.  Both reports prompt me to highlight the efforts being made by the Government of Mauritius 
to promote and direct the country's econom ic development through increased trade and 
a proactive approach to attracting investment, as has already been pointed out. 
5.49.  The global economic crisis, which began in 2008, has unquestionably posed a challenge for 
the world as a whole, in terms of how to pursue  government endeavours to promote development 
and prevent the adverse effects of the crisis from having a serious impact on our economies. 
5.50.  On behalf of Peru, I would like to congratulate the Government of Mauritius, through its 
distinguished delegation to this meeting, on the pr agmatic approach - described in its report - that 
it has taken to integrate its economy in the global arena and harness opportunities in Africa and other regions, including measures to facilitate business start-ups, streamline trade and investment procedures and create new poles of growth through economic diversification. 
5.51.  As other developing countries have done, my country has also had to scale up government 
efforts in recent years to deal with the effects of the international economic crisis and has driven forward reforms to make the Peruvian business environment and economy more competitive. 
Peru has likewise introduced administrative si mplification measures, tax amnesty, and market WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  growth strategies, inter alia  by negotiating new trade agreements and taking part in 
integration processes. 
5.52.  In order to gain a more detailed insight into the experiences of Mauritius in this regard, 
Peru has submitted a few questions on the trade policies and practices of Mauritius, particularly in 
the customs area. 
Djibouti 5.53.  I should like to take this opportunity to highlight the Djiboutian Government's efforts to 
promote development in a particularly difficult international economic environment, as a result 
of the worldwide economic crisis which began in 2008, as has already been mentioned, described and explained here. 
5.54.  An economy such as that of Djibouti - in which services play a key role and have generated 
significant investment flows, with a trade policy targeted inter ali a at promoting diversification 
of the production system under a national development strategy - has attracted the attention of my country's customs and tax authorities, particularly as regards customs procedures 
and requirements. 
5.55.  In order to gain a more detailed insight into the experiences of Djibouti, Peru has submitted 
several questions on customs policies and practices, in the context of this second review 
of Djibouti's trade policies and practices. 
BENIN 5.56.  The delegation of Benin is pleased to take part in this review of the trade policies of Djibouti 
and Mauritius, two developing countries with which it shares a common faith in a multilateral 
trading system based on equitable rules and has jo ined efforts to achieve an early conclusion of 
the Doha Round in a manner that takes account of the development dimension. 
5.57.  Since the first review of its trade policy, Djibouti has implemented a number of institutional 
and economic reforms, which have contributed to a significant improvement in the country's 
economic and trade performance and have given Djibouti a good qualitative ranking in the World Bank's Doing Business  report. 
5.58.  Djibouti's economic growth resumed in 2012 and continued in 2013, rising from 4.5% to 
5%. It was boosted by the two traditional drivers of the economy, namely port activities and foreign direct investment, with inflows reaching the record level of US$277 million or 18.6% of GDP in 2013. 
5.59.  Other achievements worthy of mention are the decline in inflation to 3.7% in 2012 and 
to 2.7% in 2013, an efficient public spending po licy and improved revenue collection, all of which 
brought the budget deficit down to 2.7% of GDP in 2012 and to 1.9% of GDP in 2013. 
5.60.  We are convinced that the launching this year of the Djibouti Government's vision for 
economic development will efficiently contribu te towards the noble objective of making the 
Republic of Djibouti "an emerging middle-income country by 2035". 
5.61.  Turning to Mauritius, which is undergoing its fourth trade policy review, the delegation of 
Benin is pleased to note the progress made since the previous review in 2008, and welcomes the opportunities created for the country by the Mauritian Government's endeavours, as well as the action taken at bilateral, regional and multilateral level to facilitate trade and investment and 
further integrate Mauritius in the world economy and global value chains. 
5.62.  It is also important to highlight the special focus placed by government policies on 
public/private partnership, in particular thro ugh a sound policy for the promotion of micro, 
small and medium-sized enterprises. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  5.63.  Thanks to the Mauritian economy's resilience in  2013 in the face of an unfavourable external 
environment, budget analyses for 2014 suggest th at economic growth may attain 3.8% and the 
overall budget deficit may contract to 3.2% of GDP, after reaching 3.7% in 2013. The foreign trade performance achieved by Mauritius during the period under review led to an appreciable 
increase in total goods exports, from to MUR 59 million in 2008 to MUR 72 million in 2013. 
5.64.  Lastly, Mauritius should be commended for a number of economic diversification measures, 
with a broad opening of services, particularly through the development of tourism, the promotion 
of investment in ICT infrastructure, and support for both the banking and non-banking 
financial sector. 
5.65.  Despite the proactive endeavours and achievements made by the two countries under 
review, Djibouti and Mauritius still face difficulties on account of their status as developing 
countries with limited resources. It would therefore be highly advisable for countries to receive 
suitable support in order to further their integration in the global economy and international trade. 
5.66.  The delegation of Benin urges the donor community to continue and step up the various 
forms of support provided for the two countries, in addition to the efforts being made at the 
national level. 
5.67.  The delegation of Benin wishes the delegations of Djibouti and Mauritius a successful review 
of their trade policies. 
5.68.  To conclude, the delegation of Benin thanks the WTO Secretariat for its excellent 
preparation of this meeting. 
BARBADOS 
Mauritius 
5.69.  My delegation commends Mauritius on its stable economic performance. To have achieved 
an average annual growth rate of 3.83% over the period 2008-2013 when many countries were 
struggling to fend off the impact of the global recession, is quite remarkable. During this time, the 
country exhibited sound fiscal management, keeping its budget deficit to an average of 3.1% of GDP and its debt to GDP ratio under 60% of GDP. These are very positive outcomes for a small 
island developing State under any circumstances, but especially so at this difficult time in the 
global economy. 
5.70.  Mauritius like Barbados, a small island developing State is characterized by small size and 
high vulnerability. We therefore understand the difficulties faced by island States like Mauritius 
when pursuing growth and social and economic de velopment. In the face of these and the global 
challenges however, Mauritius has endeavoured to chart a comprehensive sustainable development path built on the development of a co mpetitive logistics and distribution platform for 
international trade in both maritime and in the aviation transport, while at the same time pursuing 
a pro-active expansionary fiscal policy and a responsive monetary policy.. 
5.71.  At the sectoral level, the country must also be commended for the significant growth in its 
financial and insurance sectors as well as in the information and communications sector In 
addition, in the manufacturing sector, given the ch allenges of the period, a steady though lower 
performance was achieved. However, given that th is was occurring at a time when the world was 
struggling to come out of recession, this too was an achievement. 
5.72.  Generally also, the country has adapted rather well to the loss of its protected markets with 
the European Union and has re-ordered its economy to take account of these realities. Though the agricultural sector performed unevenly, the sector was able to register positive growth most of the 
time despite the adjustment taking place in dealing with a new and more competitive environment 
and has been able to record positive growth in exports in every year since 2009.  
5.73.  Though Europe remained the main export market, we commend the country for its strategy 
of focusing on Africa as an important partner in its future development. The country must also be WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  commended for its efforts at effecting efficiency improvements, in particular through enhanced 
business facilitation aimed at fast tracking projects, speeding up the delivery of several 
government related approvals, swifter handling of business start-ups and generally improving the approach to facilitation of business, as well as making plans for developing the intellectual 
property environment.  
5.74.  As a small island developing State which is distant from many markets, the country has 
rightly placed emphasis on transportation as an important plank in its development. The 
Government must therefore be commended for its pl ans to expand and improve its port facilities 
and its marine services. 
5.75.  Indeed, the plans for developing the ocean economy, given its substantial exclusive 
economic zone (EEZ), has the possibility for bringing important development opportunities over 
the long term and the proposed road map for the development of the sector is likely to bring 
clarity and focus to its plans.  
5.76.  As an island economy, fishing is very important and the country has made substantial 
efforts to add value to its fishing industry by developing sea food processing in order to improve 
the benefits to be derived from the fishing industry.   
5.77.  In terms of new investment, like most countries whose fortunes are closely linked to the 
performance of their developed country partners, Mauritius was adversely affected by a slowdown 
in investment with private investment contracting in real terms. Though the national savings rate has fallen and the current account deficit has increased, prospects seem good for an expected turnaround in investment inflows in light  of Government's economic programmes.  
5.78.  Given the pro-active nature of the country's efforts at reform and restructuring and its plans 
to sustain this over the medium term, Mauritius is likely to continue to perform well. We are very encouraged by the tangible and positive results and their commendable achievements. 
5.79.  Here in Geneva, Mauritius has remained steadfast in its commitment to the WTO as can be 
demonstrated through their participation in the processes of this House. Mauritius has been, and continues to be, a valuable partner in advancing the Small Economies Work Programme. At the 
bilateral level, Barbados has a bilateral Investment treaty with Mauritius and we look forward to a 
continued cordial relationship.  
Djibouti 5.80.  Though Barbados has very limited contact with Dj ibouti at the trade level, we wish to take 
this opportunity to commend them on a competen t Trade Policy Review. We note that despite 
several challenges, they have managed to register  positive growth in several years under review 
and, in particular, have made significant efforts to attract foreign direct investment. We note their 
objective of encouraging greater regional integratio n and their goal of consolidating their position 
as a trans-shipment point. 
5.81.  In closing, we commend both Mauritius and Djibouti on their performances and wish them 
every success in the future, as well as a successful conclusion to their Trade Policy Reviews. 
KENYA Djibouti 5.82.  We congratulate the Government of Djibouti for its continued economic growth since 2012, 
driven by investment programmes particularly in ports, roads and hotel infrastructure. Djibouti's 
economy is dominated by the services sector since it is both the major transit port for the region and an international transhipment and refuelling centre. 
5.83.  Djibouti, as a least developed country, needs support to effectively implement the deeper 
institutional reforms that are critical to sustaining its dynamic economic growth. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  5.84.  The efforts of the Government of Djibouti in recent years to reduce the structural obstacles 
to the provision of an adequate electricity and water supply are encouraging. Their lack handicaps 
growth, especially in the private sector, and the Government has raised funds for several projects that aim to improve supplies. Its efforts need to be complemented by assistance from the 
international community so as to improve the business environment for trade and to attract more 
investment. Djibouti has yet to realize the enormous potential that remains untapped in the area of agriculture. 
5.85.  As do many other least developed countries and some developing countries, Djibouti 
continues to face challenges in fulfilling its WTO obligations. This is particularly so with WTO notifications and the amending or putting in plac e laws and regulations that conform to WTO law. 
We urge the WTO and the donor community to provide technical assistance and capacity building 
to help Djibouti fulfil its WTO obligations and to realize the benefits of the multilateral trading 
system. 
5.86.  We welcome the participation of Djibouti in regional integration initiatives and regional 
bodies such as IGAD. This has helped the country to initiate reforms and to address some of the 
challenges faced in the pursuit of economic development and prosperity. 
Mauritius 
5.87.  We commend Mauritius for the measures it has taken to liberalize its economy. We note 
with appreciation that several measures were taken recently in further liberalizing the economy, including tariff cuts, a reduction of import licensing and the dismantling of subsidy schemes. As a consequence of the tariff cuts, the simple average applied MFN rate has fallen from 6.6% in 2007 
to 2.3% in 2014 making Mauritius a very open ec onomy. The investment regime is also open and 
transparent as a result of removal of restrictions on foreign equity participation in sectors such as tourism. 
5.88.  We are also encouraged to note that the economy of Mauritius has been resilient against 
external shocks despite the global economic crisis and the weaker import demand from its leading export market, the EU. Participation in regional trade agreements has played an important role in 
diversifying markets which has led to the increase of the share of exports to Africa, Asia and the 
United States. 
5.89.  Although the inward Foreign Direct Investment flow generally has dropped tremendously 
during the period of financial crisis, since 2010, Mauritius' figures have improved. This reflects a 
good and stable macroeconomic environment, and implementation of measures aimed at 
improving the business environment. 
5.90.  The efforts being undertaken to domestic WTO Agreements in the areas such as trade 
remedies need to be complemented and supported in order to ensure full compliance with the WTO 
multilateral norms. 
5.91.  In conclusion, we wish to thank the delegation of Mauritius for their active and constructive 
participation in the activities of the ACP Group in Geneva. 
KINGDOM
 OF SAUDI  ARABIA 
5.92.  Djibouti and Mauritius, despite notable economic differences, share common features. Their 
economies are dominated by the services' sector an d both are heavily dependent on trade. Further 
to an assessment of their strengths and potential growth areas, Djibouti and Mauritius have been 
implementing ambitious reforms to diversify and reinforce their economies. Djibouti's National Initiative for Social Development aims to pr omote growth, competitiveness and employment; 
reduce poverty; guarantee access to core social services; and improve public governance. It is 
part of a more comprehensive strategy, set forth in Djibouti's "Vision 2035", and is complemented by the National Trade Development Strategy. Similarly, Mauritius has been executing its Economic 
Reform Program to further open up its economy; consolidate its economic structure; and reform 
its regulatory environment to improve the business environment. These reforms have allowed Djibouti and Mauritius to perform well over the re view period, with GDP growth rates on average WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  greater than 4% despite the global economic and financial crisis. Foreign direct investment inflows, 
which are essential for the diversification policies of both Members, also improved since 2010. 
Djibouti and Mauritius are to be recognized for their efforts and encouraged to continue sound economic and trade policies.  
5.93.  The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia enjoys excellent trade relations with Djibouti and Mauritius 
and aims to continue to develop them. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is amongst Djibouti's top trading partners and one of the main investors in Djibouti. The Government of Saudi Arabia also 
offers its support to the State of Djibouti, directly or through development agencies. 
5.94.  The promotion of trade relations with region al partners is an important part of the 
development strategies of Djibouti and Mauritius. Both countries are active members of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Free Trade Area and seek to further 
develop trade within Africa. 
5.95.  As original Members of the WTO and as demons trated today by the significance of their 
delegations, Djibouti and Mauritius also greatly value the multilateral trading system. They have 
repeatedly expressed their support for a rules-ba sed system that promotes sustainable economic 
development within developing and least-developed country Members. 
GHANA 
Mauritius 
5.96.  The Delegation of Ghana notes with appreciation the high ranking of Mauritius in various 
international indicators relating to governance, competitiveness and the business environment. As one of the consistently strong performers in Africa with open and transparent investment regime, 
many African countries look to Mauritius as a shining example.  
5.97.  Ghana has had long standing trade relations wi th Mauritius even though the value of trade 
has not been all that substantial with Mauritius always chalking a positive trade balance. In the 
last five years, for example, Ghana's exports grew from a paltry US$65,000 in 2009 to over 
US$1.8 million, whereas its imports from Mauritiu s grew from US$12.3 milli on to US$25.7 million 
in the same period. The huge balance in favour of Mauritius could be the result of its deliberate 
policy of promoting exports to African countries. We would like to see more trade among the two 
countries. 
5.98.  The Government Report indicates that Mauritius' TradeNet, the single window system which 
allows declarants to submit customs declarations online, to Customs through the latter's Customs 
Management System (CMS), is one of the most effi cient clearance systems in Africa. It allows for 
the electronic payment of duties and taxes, as well  as submission of applications for permits issued 
by regulators participating in the import and export trade. No wonder customs clearance times 
have significantly reduced since the last review.  
5.99.  Mauritius ranks high in the area of trade facilitation. It is therefore not surprising that 
Mauritius was among the first WTO Members to have notified their Category A commitments under 
the Trade Facilitation Agreement. 
5.100.  Indeed, Ghana's Community Network, an electronic platform and data interchange for 
customs clearance was fashioned after the TradeNet of Mauritius. When in the early 2000, Ghana sought to review the existing ASYCUDA system fo r the clearance of goods, a delegation was sent 
to Mauritius to understudy the TradeNet system and the fruit of that study tour is the Ghana 
Community Network (GCNet). The GCNet is currently an enviable clearance system in the West African sub-region. We urge Mauritius to hasten  the project being implemented to enhance the 
single window to gradually integrate relevant agencies into the TradeNet and thus make the 
system truly and completely electronic. 
5.101.  Despite the many positives in the trade and economic environment of Mauritius, certain 
policies still exist that could be restrictive. The Secretariat report notes that import and export 
permit requirements have been reduced over th e review period. However, the existing import WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  permit system could be used to protect domestic producers of some agricultural produce such as 
tea, chicken and pork. 
5.102.  I t  i s  a l s o  w o r t h y  o f  n o t e  t h a t  t h e  S t a t e ,  o p e r a t i n g  i n  t h e  f o r m  o f  P a r a s t a t a l s  l i k e  
telecommunications, air transport and financial services, intervenes in economic activities instead 
of creating the enabling environment and a llowing the private sector to operate.  
5.103.  While recognizing the record of Mauritius in its WTO Notifications, we would further urge 
them to notify the RTAs with Pakistan and the Indian Ocean Commission to help advance the 
monitoring and analysis exercise undertaken by the Secretariat. 
Djibouti 5.104.  Ghana recognizes that, being the country's second trade policy review, the first having 
taken place in 2006, the intervening period has seen a number of important developments, which 
have implications for Djibouti's trade and trade-related policies 
5.105.  We commend the Government for upholding to multiparty system of governance since 
April 2010, for consolidating the rule of law, abolishing the death penalty and introducing a new 
Commercial Code that entered into force in August 2012, a law adopted to provide better 
regulation of commercial activity.  
5.106.  We note with profound appreciation that since Djibouti's last trade policy review, the 
banking sector has seen relative expansion due to  the dynamism of the services sector. That a 
High Council for Public-Private Dialogue, with the task of fostering a business environment that allows the private sector to thrive and contribute to economic growth and job creation has also been set up.  
5.107.  These improvements notwithstanding, we would urge Djibouti to improve its trade and 
economic environment for the promotion of trade and investment. 
5.108.  Regarding Customs valuation, indicative values (minimum values) still exist, with the 
explanation that it is to contend with under-invoicing. As the authorities have pointed out, they are 
faced with numerous cases of under-invoicing and need technical assistance to apply the Customs Valuation Agreement in full. Members who have the capacity to provide any assistance could take 
note and support the Member accordingly.  
5.109.  In keeping with the spirit of transparency in  the WTO we encourage Djibouti to notify the 
WTO of any State-trading enterprises within the meaning of Article XVII of the GATT.  
5.110.  Finally, we would like to seize this opportunity to thank the Ambassador of Colombia 
H.E. Mr. Gabriel Duque for accepting to be the discussa nt for this review and doing it so efficiently, 
his forward looking, insightful and eloquent analys is has definitely added great substance to this 
Review, and to Madam Chair for the able manner you have conducted this meeting. 
TOGO 
5.111.  My delegation emphasizes and welcomes the major reforms implemented by the two 
countries under review. 
5.112.  The efforts made by the Government of Djib outi in adopting a new Commercial Code, 
amending the country's intellectual property legislation and adopting a Public/Private Partnership Act deserve to be encouraged. 
5.113.  Togo wishes to lay special emphasis on the authorities' establishment of a single window in 
2013, a step the importance of which prompted my own country's authorities to introduce such 
a reform on 27 July 2014. 
5.114.  This reform is far-reaching in that it provides the developing countries with an effective 
means of gauging the business climate. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  5.115.  Turning to the Republic of Mauritius, my delegation welcomes the diversification of the 
domestic economy, which has helped turn Mauritius into a middle-income country in a difficult 
environment where most African countries cannot escape dependence on raw materials and mining resources, whose low resilience to external shoc ks has adverse consequences for our economies. 
5.116.  My delegation is pleased to note that the country's trade balance is in surplus and 
commends the sustained efforts made by Mauritius to lever foreign investment. 
5.117.  Despite occasionally different approaches in the policies pursued by the two countries, 
there are similarities between them in some areas such as tourism and free zones. 
5.118.  Togo welcomes the efforts made by the authorities of both countries to enhance tourism 
and turn it into an engine of economic growth, and believes that this is a high value-added resource with huge economic development potential that should be explored by developing and 
least developed countries. 
5.119.  My delegation notes the two countries' policies regarding free zones, which cannot but help 
attract investment that will yield unquestionable benefits. 
5.120.  My country having had experience with free zones since 1989, I am well aware of the 
boundless economic advantages which they have to  offer, and my delegation would like to pay 
tribute to both countries for taking such steps. 
5.121.  It would take too long here to list all the efforts undertaken by the two countries to further 
their integration in international trade. 
5.122.  Suffice it to mention that my delegation urges the WTO and all of the partners to support 
both countries in their endeavours. 
5.123.  This requires the conclusion of the Doha Round, which we hope will become a reality. 
CHINESE
 TAIPEI 
5.124.  Firstly, regarding Djibouti, it is very pleasing to see that between 2006 and 2012 GDP 
growth rate averaged about 5% per year. At the same time, perhaps a little cause for concern that 
the two dynamics on which this growth was mainly dependent continued to be its port infrastructure and the massive inflow of foreign direct investment (FDI) centred on transport 
activities and related services. It is encouraging, however, to note from the report of the 
Secretariat that Djibouti is attempting to promote greater diversification of its production base with 
the private-sector making a larger contribution to GDP , and with the adoption of the "National Trade Development Strategy (SNDC)" in 2010, as well as the "National Initiative for Social 
Development (INDS) for 2007 to 2015". Programmes such as the "Djibouti 2035" and the 
"Strategy for Accelerated Growth and Employment  Creation (SCAPE)" are also impressive. We 
sincerely hope that all of these worthy efforts will lead to the kind of diversification that the 
economy really needs, and help Djibouti to achieve its own target of 8.5% annual growth. 
5.125.  In the case of Mauritius, we are again pleased to learn that its economy has enjoyed 
average annual growth of 4% over the last seven years (2007 to 2013). The Government has 
continued to adopt various programmes-such as the "Economic Restructuring Competitiveness 
Programme (ERCP)", the "Exclusive Economic Zone s (EEZs) Programme", the "Export Processing 
Zone Scheme", the "Freeport Scheme" and the "Inc lusive High Income Economy Vision", all of 
these initiatives geared to transform and build a competitive logistics and distribution platform for 
international trade with the overall aim of securing economic growth, social equity and 
sustainability. 
5.126.  As far our bilateral trading relationship with ea ch of these countries is concerned, the value 
of our two-way trade with Djibouti in 2013 was US$34.6 million, and with Mauritius in the same 
year it was US$113.4 million. We certainly to see the potential for greater economic cooperation and trade expansion bilaterally with ea ch of these economies in the future. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  5.127.  At the multilateral level, we would urge both these countries to make as much use of the 
WTO's trade-related capacity building and technica l assistance as possible. From our experience, 
they can be particularly helpful in facilitating trade diversification and economic integration. 
ARGENTINA 
Djibouti 
5.128.  Argentina congratulates Djibouti on its economic performance since its previous trade 
policy review. We note the country's 5% rate of GDP growth between 2006 and 2009. Growth 
resumed in 2012 after the 2010-2011 crisis, driven by investment in road, hotel and mainly 
port infrastructure. 
5.129.  Djibouti's strategic location on the Red Sea has led to the establishment of a series of ports 
along the coast, generating significant revenue. 
5.130.  As a result, the country has experienced sustained growth. However, development must be 
taken further and maintained over time in order to reduce the country's levels of extreme poverty. 
5.131.  We urge Djibouti to continue the development and employment promotion and poverty 
reduction process, which began in 2007 with the National Initiative for Social Development. 
5.132.  We also hope that implementation of the 2015-2019 Strategy for Accelerated Growth and 
Employment Creation will further diversify the economy and increase the country's participation in 
international trade. 
Mauritius 5.133.  As regards Mauritius, the Argentine delegation is pleased to note that since the third 
review of its trade policy in 2008 and despite the global economic crisis, the Mauritian economy 
has shown good performance and GDP has risen thanks to tourism and construction, not to 
mention the country's macroeconomic policies. 
5.134.  Argentina congratulates Mauritius on its endeavours to diversify the economy and 
highlights the strides made in this regard, which have enabled the country's transition from 
a purely agricultural economy to an economy with incipient but promising industrial sectors and a vastly expanded tourism services sector. 
5.135.  Proof of this diversification process lies in the growth of Argentina's imports from Mauritius 
since 2011, led by the textile industry and the production of eyewear in particular. 
5.136.  Although there has been some degree of fluctu ation in the bilateral trade balance over the 
past ten years, with a slight decline in Argentine exports, Argentina regards Mauritius as 
a significant trading partner in the region. 
5.137.  Argentina wishes to strengthen its trade relations with Mauritius and Djibouti, on the basis 
of the principles of complementarity, equality and solidarity applied by Argentina through 
South-South cooperation. 
EGYPT 5.138.  Allow me at the outset to welcome the presence  of the distinguished delegation of Djibouti, 
headed by H.E. Minister of trade, and to congra tulate them for the second Trade Policy Review of 
their country. We welcome as well the distinguished delegation of Mauritius, headed by H.E. Secretary of State, and congratulate them fo r the fourth trade policy review of their country.  
We thank the Government of Djibouti and Mauritius, as well as the WTO Secretariat for the reports 
prepared for this meeting. We cannot overemphasize the important data that has been made 
available to us with respect to the economic  and trade policies implemented by the country. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  5.139.  We want to express our appreciation for the valuable role of the distinguished Ambassador 
of Colombia in his capacity as a discussant of the Trade Policy Review of Djibouti. 
5.140.  We acknowledge the Djibouti commitment to  the multilateral trading system and the 
regional integration efforts which is illustrated by its trade policies. We appreciate the adoption of 
Djibouti to National Trade Development Strategy in 2010, as well as the Commercial Code in 2011. 
We hope that the new Commercial Code will provide better regulation of commercial activity and contribute to improving the country's business environment. 
5.141.  We welcome Djibouti review of its investment policy in 2013 hoping that the outcome of 
this review process will help strengthening the role of the private sector, as well as attracting Foreign Direct Investment. In this context, we  appreciate the efforts being undertaken towards 
finalization of the new investment code. 
5.142.  We commend Djibouti's commitment to the regional integration through its positive 
contributions to COMESA work and the Tripartite Agreement between COMESA, the South African Development Community (SADC) and the East African Community (EAC). 
5.143.  We hope that Djibouti will continue its efforts to counter the challenges and to pursue its 
endeavours needed to diversify the economy and to enhance its productive capacity. 
5.144.  Finally, we wish both Djibouti and Mauritius a successful Trade Policy Review. 
REPUBLIC
 OF KOREA 
Djibouti 5.145.  As the Secretariat report noted, since the last TPR, Djibouti has maintained its moderate 
GDP growth rates of around 5% driven by burgeo ning inward foreign direct investment (FDI) on 
transport activities and related services. 
5.146.  We believe that Djibouti's trade policy is going in the right direction, as it aims to promote 
diversification of the production system with a larger private-sector contribution to GDP and 
business formalization and structuring. 
5.147.  In that regard, we would like to commend the Government of Djibouti for its efforts to fully 
implement the 2010 National Trade Development St rategy which seeks to upgrade the software 
used by Customs, as well as the improvement in  the quality of statistics and the setting up of 
business and legislative reforms among others.  
5.148.  Finally, we would like to urge the Government of Djibouti to fully fulfil its notification 
obligations under the WTO. 
Mauritius 
5.149.  We would like to commend the Government of Mauritius for its liberal and transparent 
trade policy and its on-going reform efforts in various areas such as the reduction of tariff rates 
and imports licensing, the dismantlement of subsidy programs, as well as the enhancement of the 
protection of IPR, and the improvement of Compet ition Acts. Therefore, it is no wonder that 
Mauritius has performed relatively well during  the period under review, despite the global 
economic crisis and weaker foreign demand.  
5.150.  Korea also welcomes the notification of Mauritius to the WTO with its Category A 
commitments under the Agreement on Trade Facilitation 
5.151.  Korea would like to express its sincere hope to further expand our bilateral relations on all 
fronts with Djibouti and Mauritius. 
5.152.  In closing, we very much hope that today's TPR will provide a good opportunity for Djibouti 
and Mauritius, as well as their trading partners, including Korea, to assess the progress as well as WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
WT/TPR/M/305 • Djibouti 
 
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  to help identify further ways forward. In this regard, we would like to, again, express our 
appreciation to the delegates of Djibouti and Mauritius for their hard work in preparing for this 
TPR. We wish them all a very successful TPR. 
LESOTHO  ON BEHALF  OF THE AFRICAN  GROUP 
5.153.  The African Group supports the efforts made by the two Member States in their pursuit to 
diversify their economies and create employment opportunities in consonance with transparency 
obligations under the WTO Agreements. This is ev idently the affirmative show of commitment by 
these Members to the multilateral trading system.  
Djibouti 5.154.  The African Group pays tribute to Djibouti's reforms which have been testified by 
improvement rankings in World Bank's 2014 Ease of  Doing Business Report to the current rank of 
160 out of 189 countries. These reforms in pursuit of diversifying and increasing their economic 
growth one noticeable effort by the Djibouti Government. These include the adoption of the 
National Trade Development Strategy and an evid ent increase in FDI inflows of US$277 million in 
2013. It is for this reason that the African Group supports and commends Djibouti's efforts in 
improving investment climate as heralded amongst others by changes their procurement policies and investments in infrastructure.  
5.155.  Djibouti has been able to contain inflation fo r the period under review with 3.7% and 1.9% 
in 2012 and 2013 respectively, and also was able to reduce their trade deficit to 2.7% in 2012 and 1.9 % in 2013. In addition, there have been im provements on trade facilitation to increase 
efficiency in trading across borders through the introduction of modern customs systems and their 
strategic utilization of Free Zones, this is commendable given the enormity of challenges faced by 
small States including as Djibouti. Of specific note are tremendous strides made by Djibouti through the Regional Integration Program, inclusive of the transit corridor to improved port 
facilities.  
5.156.  Let me commend the Government of Djibouti on their strong support for the multilateral 
trading system and participation in regional integration.  
Mauritius 
5.157.  Mauritius has also not only been performing exceptionally well but has been a model for 
reforms in Africa towards improvement of the investment climate. As a beacon of successful reform agenda, it is an enviable economic growth anchored in sound reforms as testified by 
H.E. Mrs. Dwarka-Canabady earlier today. Furthe r, the Green Growth efforts towards sustainable 
development are indeed commendable.  
5.158.  Mauritius has been the top African performer on the World Bank Ease of Doing Business for 
a number of years now ranking 20th globally in in 2014. The active involvement by Mauritius in 
regional integration initiatives such as COMESA and SADC, and the tripartite negotiations by SADC, EAC and COMESA in addition to the WTO, is a clear demonstration of Mauritius in 
embracing the principle of market liberalization. 
5.159.  The African group commends the efforts by Mauritius in improving among others their IP 
regimes, increasing efficiency to improve infrastructure development and their efforts to improve and diversify their services sector. In the manufacturing sector, Mauritius has been one of the top 
exporters under the AGOA program which the forthcoming session will be a make or break for the 
committed seamless renewal. 
5.160.  The two small economies have been affected heavily by the financial crisis in 2008, but 
have shown resilience supported by macroeconomic and fiscal support to assist the growth of their 
economies. This is evident by an  average of 5% economic growth for Djibouti and an average of 
4% for Mauritius between 2008 and 2013. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  5.161.  One may also argue that their resilience can be  attributed to their unwavering support to 
the multilateral trading system, as further evidenced in their commitments to the DDA, the Bali 
Package including notification in the TFA, as well as their contribution to the African economic regional integration agenda. The African Group would like to encourage the Members of the WTO 
and international Donor community to assist in the development efforts of these two Members.  
5.162.  On behalf of the African group let me commend the two countries on their TPR reports and 
their contribution to transparency process in  the WTO, and wish them a successful review. 
SWAZILAND 
Mauritius 5.163.  In reviewing the reports of Mauritius which form the basis of today's review, my delegation 
had an opportunity to assess the economic and trade programme of a fellow small economy and 
SADC member, trying to navigate the structural economic challenges which are common to many 
small States. 
5.164.  Mauritius is a remote, small and open economy which has, in recent times, faced 
significant challenges to the international trade regime for two of its most important export 
products. Specifically, internal market reforms in the EU, coupled with new multilateral rules governing trade in textiles, signalled the possibl e loss of a secure, predictable and remunerative 
market for two major foreign exchange earners: sugar and textiles. 
5.165.  The prospect of uncertainty and disruptions in two major export sectors would challenge 
policy makers and industry interests even in the most advanced economies. However, far from being daunted by this prospect, the Government of  Mauritius has embarked on a far-reaching and 
ambitious programme of reform and adjustment. Central to this programme of reform was the 
secular movement from an economy dependent on  unilateral preferences to one founded on 
competitiveness in key sectors of export interest. 
5.166.  To this end, the reports highlight a catalogue of legislative steps taken to bring Mauritius 
into compliance with its multilateral obligations whilst simultaneously establishing a basis for a more competitive engagement with international markets. In this regard, allow me to highlight the 
implementation of the Business Facilitation Act. It should be noted that this Act sits at the very 
heart of the reform programme and aims at adjustments enabling of private sector investment. The success of the reform process is evidenced by a stable macroeconomic environment, low levels of unemployment, contained rates of inflation and a public sector debt that remains 
impressively within prudential limits. These refo rms have been lauded by the World Bank which 
rates Mauritius 20th globally for Ease of Doing Business. Similarly, Mauritius scores credibly in other metrics such as: protection of investors, economic freedom, governance, and global 
competitiveness, to name a few. 
5.167.  Indeed, on further inspection, it is apparent that the positive economic momentum of 
Mauritius has been enabled by its effective use of international trade as a vehicle for attracting 
investment, spurring domestic regulatory reforms and seeking and securing new export markets. 
With respect to international trade, Mauritiu s maintains average bound duties of 119% on 
agricultural products and 22% on industrial goods,  however, the average applied rates are 0.9% in 
agriculture, and 1.14% on industrial goods, maki ng Mauritius one of the most open economies in 
the world. Additionally, Mauritius is a member of the ITA and has made a commendable offer in 
services negotiations. 
5.168.  It is also instructive that allied to the policy objective of establishing Mauritius as a regional 
maritime, logistics and business hub, concrete steps have been taken to develop the 
infrastructural and regulatory backbone in pursuance of this objective. Critical in this regard and amply reflected in the reports, are the considerable efforts already taken by Mauritius in trade 
facilitation. The significant reforms in trade facilitation are seen as critical to unlocking higher 
levels of efficiency along the trade logistics supply chain with positive effects to be realised throughout the real economy. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  5.169.  For my delegation, Mauritius presents a worthy case study for all small economies 
burdened by preference erosion and a patchy and challenging integration into the global economy. 
5.170.  I would like to congratulate and commend the delegation of Mauritius for their very clear 
and interesting report, but more significantly, for the innovative approach taken to navigating 
some of the most perplexing economic ch allenges confronted by small economies. 
5.171.  I wish you success as you continue to implement elements of your trade and economic 
reform agenda. 
Djibouti 
5.172.  I would also like to commend and congratulate the delegation of Djibouti for preparing and 
participating in their second trade policy review within the institutional framework of the WTO. As an exercise in economic assessment and transpar ency this helps countries identify their own 
barriers to growth and prosperity to assist in the necessary readjustments and policy changes. As 
a fellow country of Africa, as well as a memb er of COMESA, we are impressed by the reforms 
enacted despite challenges on the ground and we encourage the Government to continue with 
creating a facilitatory environment for trade, as well as for local small business. 
VANUATU 5.173.  The Government and people of Mauritius have a lot to be proud of. In short order they 
have made significant strides towards a more fulsome integration into the global economy, they 
engaged a programme of economic diversification an d boosted the capacity of the private sector to 
beneficially participate in the economic development of Mauritius. 
5.174.  It is no secret that Vanuatu, like Mauritius, is still grappling with the impacts of the global 
financial and economic crisis and the continuing effects of preference erosion.  
5.175.  The reports demonstrate that Mauritius is committed to multilateralism and, in this regard, 
has been an example of self-import reforms, an  example that many small States can take on 
board in their continuing efforts to integrate into the global economy. 
5.176.  It is clear from the report that the Government of Mauritius has translated its policy 
objectives into a clear programme of legislative reforms which underpins and consolidates a clear 
development agenda. 
5.177.  Special note is made of the cross-cutting an d far reaching legislative programmes trigged 
by the Business Facilitation Act. These legislative reforms touch and concern the Government, export development, business promotion and suppor t, to name a few. Additionally, the ambitious 
round of infrastructural renewal which includes the Port-Louis redevelopment and the extension of 
the international airport are practical steps to facilitate and realize structural economic transformation. 
5.178.  In preferences environment, a competitivene ss based approach to economic development 
is critical to servicing the long term and sustainable economic development of a small economy. Interestingly, Mauritius has enjoyed some degree s of success by reducing tariff and inviting 
investment of capital and human talent. Another example of policy innovation undertaken by 
Mauritius is its launch into the new non-traditional markets. In this regard, new trade and economic activity has been pursued with Turkey, Pakistan, China and other members of the BRICs.  
5.179.  Also, Mauritius has made clear its intention to engage positively and in a mutually 
enhancing fashion with the African continent. Demonstrative of this intention is the growth in trade 
between Mauritius and SACU, COMESA and the EAC. 
5.180.  Mauritius has translated the nomenclature of South-South trade into a reality which 
continues to boost and support its industrial development and expansion. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  5.181.  Mauritius has made great strides towards a successful establishment of a mixed economy 
thus highlighting the importance of output in the manufacturing, agriculture and services sector. 
5.182.  The efforts of Mauritius in pursuing a green st rategy of development should be seen as a 
case study for best practices. Mauritius' efforts at supporting an ocean economy approach which 
seeks to balance both the economy and ecological imperatives within a comprehensive governance 
framework is of particular note.  
5.183.  By exploiting its maritime resources, ship registration, and marine renewable energy, 
Mauritius makes impressive efforts all the more when considering that these elements are assets 
for prosperity and future economic value. 
5.184.  These reforms rank Mauritius 20th globally in the Ease of Doing Business of the World Bank 
particularly as regards protection for investors, economic freedom, governance and global 
competitiveness, to name a few. 
5.185.  For my delegation, Mauritius presents an interesting case study for all small economies 
affected by preference erosion and a tough chal lenging integration into the global economy. 
5.186.  I would like to commend the delegation of Mauritius for their very clear and interesting 
report and for the innovative approach taken to navigate in some of the most complex economic challenges confronted by small economies. 
5.187.  I wish Mauritius, as well as Djibouti, continuous success in pursuing their economic and 
trade reform agenda. 
INDIA Djibouti 
5.188.  As brought out in the Government report, Djibouti has registered overall positive growth 
during the period under review. The economic grow th in Djibouti further picked up momentum in 
2012 and the economy grew by about 5% in 2013,  and the medium term macroeconomic outlook 
is also favourable. Trade in goods and services play an important part in Djibouti economy and 
account for about 94 % of its GDP, and during the period under review, Djibouti has taken several 
trade policy initiatives and legislative actions. It adopted a National Trade Development Strategy in 
2010, which, we understand, is being updated to enhance the framework of action, including 
components on regional integration, private sector development and custom procedures.  
5.189.  We applaud the Government of Djibouti for its trade and development related initiatives, 
including its "Vision Djibouti 2035" program to pursue its trade policy goals while enhancing social 
inclusion, economic growth and diversification and sustainable development. We are confident that 
as a result of these initiatives and the support of its international partners, Djibouti will be able to derive benefits from the multilateral trading system and its regional integration efforts. At the 
bilateral front, we enjoy close bilateral ties with Djibouti, and we look forward to further 
strengthening of our trade and development partnership.  
Mauritius 
5.190.  As brought out in the Government and Secretariat reports, during the period under review, 
the Mauritius economy performed well with annual GDP growth rates averaging about 4% despite 
weak import demand from its main markets and the turbulence in the global economy. We would like to compliment Mauritius for successfully implementing the ambitious economic and trade 
reform program that enabled the economy to move  away from dependence on trade preferences 
to global competitiveness, diversify and resulting in improved business climate. The International Finance Corporation and the World Bank Ease of Doing Business Report 2014 have ranked 
Mauritius 20th most attractive place to do busine ss worldwide, and Mauritius occupies the first 
place in Africa for the sixth consecutive years in  this ranking, which is a commendable effort.  WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  5.191.  We note the continued focus of the Mauritius Government to maintain economic buoyancy; 
including supportive macroeconomic policies and measures taken to further facilitate business 
start-ups, promoting green growth, streamlining trade and investment procedures, as well as creating new poles of growth through economic diversification namely, development of health 
services, the ocean economy, aviation and maritime hubs etc. Mauritius is also aiming to develop 
itself as a regional information and communications technology hub and to make the sector a key pillar of the economy. The policy measures  under the 2010-15 Economic Restructuring 
Competitiveness Program (ERCP) are aimed at restructuring enterprises, retraining workers, 
improving infrastructure for competitiveness, and diversifying its exports destinations. All these initiatives, we hope, will also open-up new opportunities for international collaboration. 
5.192.  As part of its diversification efforts, we note that Mauritius is laying particular focus on 
implementing an Africa strategy to harness the opportunities emerging on the African continent, 
particularly in the context of COMESA-FTA an d SADC-FTA and its active engagement in the 
negotiations of COMESA-SADC-EAC Tripartite Initiative, creating an enlarged FTA.  
5.193.  India and Mauritius have enjoyed multi-dimensional partnership, underpinned by historic 
linkages and close people to people contacts. India is one of Mauritius largest trading partners, and in 2013, India was the largest source of Mauritian imports accounting for over 24 % of the 
total Mauritian imports. We have a robust institutional framework of bilateral agreements and 
arrangements to facilitate trade, mutual investments. Indian companies have invested over US$ 200 million in Mauritius in the last five years, and we are committed to harnessing the full potential of our bilateral trade, economic and development partnership for the benefit of our two 
peoples. 
5.194.  As a result of the initiatives taken by Mauritius and with the support of its international 
partners, we are hopeful that it would gain meaningfully from its integration into the global 
economy to ensure prosperity and higher living standards for its peoples. 
TURKEY Mauritius 
5.195.  We have the pleasure to observe that, since its last trade review, Mauritius pursued its 
good economic performance and further improved its trade openness. During the review period, 
Mauritius managed to maintain a sound economic growth rate and increased its GDP per capita 
more than 50%, to reach US$9500 despite the global economic crisis.  
5.196.  External trade in goods and services acco unts for 115% of Mauritius GDP and therefore 
plays an important role in its economic performance. Since its last review, Mauritius decreased significantly its applied duty rates from a simple  average rate of 6.6% in 2007 to 2.3% in 2014, 
while 88% of its tariff lines are already duty free. It has also put in place some important reforms 
to facilitate external trade, such as the E-Cust oms project ending the necessity for importers to 
present hard copy documents to the customs auth orities. Furthermore, Mauritius is among the 
WTO Members that have already notified Catego ry A commitments under the Trade Facilitation 
Agreement. 
5.197.  Mauritius also improved its investment framework during the review period. In this 
respect, it has adopted a new Competition Act empowering a recently established Competition 
Commission to investigate anti-competitive behaviours of economic actors, implemented an 
Intellectual Property Development Plan and enacted the International Arbitration Act allowing investors to have recourse to international arbitration. 
5.198.  Efforts invested to develop its regional trade agreements network is another important 
reform element with regard to trade and investment policy of Mauritius. 
5.199.  We are pleased to see that thanks to all of  these reforms, Mauritius is among the best 
performers in Africa in terms of business climate.  It ranks 20th in the Doing Business index of the 
World Bank and 45th in the competitivene ss index of the World Economic Forum. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
WT/TPR/M/305 • Djibouti 
 
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  5.200.  In this sense, Mauritius is a real example of how a small island economy can benefit from 
commercial and economic liberalization. 
5.201.  Besides this sound economic framework that I described, as for all Members, there remain 
some challenges that need to be tackled by Mauritius in upcoming period. We believe that among 
these challenges: 
 Diversification of the manufacturing industry; 
 Combatting unemployment which insists to remain around 8%; and 
 Keeping under control the current account defici t and the gross external debt stock, which 
 both make Mauritius economy vulnerable against external shocks, are the most important  ones. 
5.202.  As indicated in the TPR report, the free tr ade agreement between Turkey and Mauritius 
entered into force in June 2013. This FTA is particularly important for Turkey as its first one in 
Africa besides its FTAs with North African countries. Moreover, an Agreement for Promotion and Protection of Bilateral Investments was also signed in February 2013.  
5.203.  In this regard, despite the relatively modest trade volume between Turkey and Mauritius, 
we deem Mauritius as an important trade and investment partner in its region and we firmly believe that our recent FTA and investment agreement will serve to enhance not only bilateral 
trade and economic relations but also to the de velopment of economic relations between Turkey 
and Africa with regard to trade, investments and development related activities.   
5.204.  In this respect, we will continue our close cooperation with Mauritius, to enhance further 
our bilateral relations in both ways.  
Djibouti 
5.205.  We also would like to congratulate Djibouti for its progress since the last trade policy 
review in 2006, including the annual average GDP growth of 5% an d its cooperation and 
willingness for establishing economic partnerships . On the other hand, we believe there is still 
room for Djibouti to fulfil its potential in areas such as agriculture, transportation, foreign direct investment and poverty reduction. We would like to increase our bilateral trade and investment 
relations with Djibouti. 
CENTRAL
 AFRICAN  REPUBLIC 
5.206.  The reports submitted for our consideration by the Secretariat and the distinguished 
representatives of the two countries highlight the various reforms conducted by the respective 
Governments since the previous reviews of their tr ade policies with a view to placing trade at the 
heart of their national development strategies. Th is shows the high degree of importance which 
the countries under review attach to the rules-based multilateral trading system, and bears 
witness to their determination to implement th e trade policy instruments which they have 
undertaken to apply under the WTO. 
Djibouti 
5.207.  Despite the formidable challenges facing Djibouti as an LDC in order to comply with the 
WTO rules and meet some of the obligations they entail, such as the notification requirement, 
my delegation acknowledges the Government's ef forts to achieve sustained economic growth 
through infrastructure, economic and structural investment. Services are a field of expertise in 
which Djibouti excels, particularly in the tourism sector, and we hope that it will further exploit this 
potential so as to turn the country into a world-class tourist destination. 
5.208.  The balance-of-trade deficit due to high impo rts of agricultural products and manufactures 
shows weaknesses in the economy that will have to  be remedied in order for the country to reach 
the level of growth required to meet its population's needs. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  Mauritius 
5.209.  As regards Mauritius, my delegation is pleased to note the major strides made in opening 
up the country's economy to the world and the rema rkable levels of FDI attracted by Mauritius in 
the financial services and tourism sectors. 
5.210.  Stability is a key factor in attracting FDI, and Mauritius is a leading example thanks to the 
stability of its institutions and regulatory instruments for trade promotion. 
5.211.  Mauritius is home to the regional macroeconomic capacity-building programme, which has 
benefited my country's officials by helping them to build up not only their personal skills but also 
the capacities of the institutions to which they belong. 
5.212.  My delegation hopes that the major reform projects under way can be completed for the 
benefit of the populations of both countries. 
5.213.  While wishing this exercise every success, my delegation fully supports Djibouti, which, 
like the Central African Republic, is an LDC, in its objective of achieving another status by 2035, as foreseen in the five-year "Djibouti Vision 2035" operational plan. 
5.214.  Lastly, my delegation thanks His Excellency Ambassador Gabriel Duque for giving of his 
time and agreeing to act as the discussant, which he has done with remarkable skill. 
NIGER 
5.215.  My delegation is pleased to take part in the trade policy reviews of Djibouti and Mauritius, 
two developing countries with which Niger maintains good relations in the African and ACP Groups as well as in the WTO, under a common approach aimed at an early conclusion of the Doha Round in a manner that takes account of the development dimension. 
5.216.  The presentation given by the delegation of Dj ibouti showed that the country is engaged in 
major efforts to boost economic growth and improve the population's living conditions. Djibouti has pursued a number of institutional and economic reforms that have contributed to 
a significant improvement in the country's economic  and trade performance and led to an enviable 
ranking in the World Bank's Doing Business  report. The perspectives defined in the five-pronged 
approach of "Djibouti Vision 2035" reflect the am bitions of this country, which is embarking on 
a far-reaching structural reform programme aimed at raising Djibouti to emerging economy status. 
5.217.  As regards Mauritius, the delegation's presen tation and our exchanges of views over the 
past 48 hours show that the country has made significant progress since the last review in 2008 and that major prospects are opening up for it. The Mauritian Government's efforts and initiatives 
at bilateral, regional and multilateral level to facilitate trade and investment and further the 
country's integration in the world economy and global value chains have been the engines of its economic development and relative prosperity among African countries. 
5.218.  Diversification of the economy thanks to the development of the manufacturing sector and 
the expansion of services to the financial banking and non-banking sector in particular has been a key vector in stimulating growth and increasing the resilience of the Mauritian economy, which 
has succeeded in withstanding an unfavourable ex ternal environment and projects 3.8% growth 
for 2014. 
5.219.  It is to be hoped that, in the context of regional cooperation efforts, the country's 
economic growth will have an impact on othe r Member economies and strengthen the impetus 
towards greater intra-African trade for the sake of integrated development of the continent. 
5.220.  Having listened to the presentations made by the delegations of Djibouti and Mauritius, 
my delegation would like to congratulate and thank them for taking an active part in this trade 
policy review exercise. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  5.221.  The two delegations have demonstrated their respective countries' full potential for further 
integration in international trade and for promoting the growth of their economies, developing 
a medium- and long-term outlook, and creating  the conditions needed to improve their 
populations' well-being. 
5.222.  There have been a few comments and remarks to encourage these countries, which 
highlight the importance of continued support to in crease their integration in the global economy. 
MADAGASCAR 
Djibouti 
5.223.  My delegation is pleased to note the growth in Djibouti's economy, which is dominated 
by services. 
5.224.  It welcomes Djibouti's rising rate of GDP,  renewed investment in port, road and hotel 
infrastructure, and above all the measures that Djibouti has taken to attract foreign 
direct investment. 
5.225.  It also welcomes the reforms undertaken by Djibouti, the fall in inflation and the country's 
efforts to improve its revenue. 
5.226.  Djibouti is a member of COMESA, which opens up trade opportunities to be explored 
among the member countries. Djibouti is negoti ating the Economic Partnership Agreements with 
the European Union within the group of countries of Eastern and Southern Africa to which 
Madagascar belongs. 
Mauritius 5.227.  My delegation commends Mauritius for its economic performance since the previous review 
of its trade policy in 2008. 
5.228.  It acknowledges the efforts made by the Government in spite of the global crisis in 2008. 
5.229.  My delegation is pleased to note the economic liberalization measures implemented by 
Mauritius and other measures taken recently to increase the country's resilience to 
external shocks. 
5.230.  Mauritius stands as a model for the African continent. It deserves congratulations for its 
growth and investment promotion measures, thanks to which it has climbed to 20
th place in the 
World Bank's Doing Business  2014 ranking. 
5.231.  My delegation commends Mauritius for its trade practices relating to customs matters and 
hence to trade facilitation, since it was one of the first countries to notify its Category A 
commitments. 
5.232.  My delegation is pleased to note the country's foreign trade performance and economic 
diversification, which have made Mauritius a middle-income country. 
5.233.  Madagascar and Mauritius already have substantial trade links. The two countries belong to 
several regional integration blocs. Both are me mbers of COMESA and the SADC. Because of their 
geographical proximity, the two countries are also members of the Indian Ocean Commission. 
Like Madagascar, Mauritius is negotiating the Economic Partnership Agreements with the 
European Union within the group of Eastern and Southern African countries. 
5.234.  My delegation welcomes the strong commitmen t shown by Djibouti and Mauritius to the 
multilateral trading system and to the success of the system by concluding the outstanding 
negotiations, which will lead to balanced, inclusive and equitable outcomes. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  5.235.  My delegation accordingly urges the technical and financial partners to support the two 
countries' in their economic development process. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  6  REPLIES BY THE REPRESEN TATIVE OF DJIBOUTI 
Economic environment 
6.1.  The investment environment in the Republic of Djibouti is characterised by a convergence of 
natural advantages, restructuring infrastructure, and legal and regulatory provisions, together with 
a range of instruments, including bilateral and multilateral agreements. This combination of factors 
has consequently produced the expected result s, given that Djibouti's attractiveness to 
international investors has been demonstrated. In point of fact, foreign direct investment (FDI) 
inflows since the country's first Trade Policy Review have experienced notable growth momentum. 
The average FDI rate as a percentage of GDP, which was a mere 13% in the period 2000 2005, climbed to 31% in the period 2006 2010, i.e. well above the rates of neighbouring countries. This rate stabilized within a range of 23% to 29% in the period 20 11 2013. This FDI has resulted in the 
creation of thousands of jobs and the transfer o f  t e c h n o l o g y  a n d  k n o w  h o w .  T h a n k s  t o  F D I ,  
Djibouti has begun developing substitution capaci ty for imports and exports of certain consumer 
goods to and from countries in the Region. 
6.2.  The structure of investment flows is increasingly diversified. The sectoral analysis of 
investment flows, formerly dominated by activi ties that were capital intensive but poor job 
providers, nowadays reveals a clear diversification trend that is highly concentrated in services, 
excluding transport, followed by light industrial activities and the construction and public works 
sector, with rates of 37%, 29% and 16% respectively. 
6.3.  With regard to the origin of the investment flows, we are witnessing the beginnings of a 
diversification of supplier regions and countries. Djibouti's foreign direct investment (FDI) 
nowadays comes from the Indian peninsula, Europe and America, as well as from its traditional 
partners, the Gulf States. 
6.4.  In 2012 2013, Djibouti, in partnership with UNCTAD, conducted a review of its investment 
policy and business climate. The report on this review, submitted at an intergovernmental meeting 
at the Palais des Nations in April 2013, constitutes a formal framework for investment environment reform. 
6.5.  Furthermore, the World Bank conducted a study on  behalf of Djibouti on a new growth model 
which revealed priority growth engine sectors and targets for future investment. These areas of focus are tourism, fisheries, transport and logistics, telecommunications, the financial sector, and energy. 
6.6.  For FDI attraction to enjoy continued positive momentum, institutional reforms, notably with 
regard to good governance, are required. One such  example is the institutionalization of public 
private dialogue through the creation of the High National Council for Public Private Dialogue 
(HNCDPP). Answering directly to the President of the Republic, this Council is the highest 
consultation mechanism and is a joint body with equal representation of the public and private sectors. Through its various structures, including the permanent secretariat, the High Council has 
already launched consultations, in particular on taxation, which is soon to be the subject of a 
comprehensive reform. 
6.7.  Furthermore, the Republic of Djib outi initiated in 2009 a reform of public services with a view 
to making them more effective and efficient. A St ate Secretariat for public service reform has been 
created to this end. 
6.8.  Djibouti also set up an Anti-Corruption Co mmission in 2014 with a view to improving the 
administrative, economic and commercial environment. 
6.9.  Major reforms, also aimed at improving the business environment, are under way, including 
the creation in 2013 of a single window for businesses with a view to rationalizing the 
administrative procedures and formalities related to business start-ups. This single window is 
currently being implemented. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  6.10.  Other reforms are also in the pipeline, including a reform of the Investment Code and the 
creation of a Web portal to ensure greater visibility of investment opportunities in Djibouti. 
6.11.  The Republic of Djibouti is already reaping th e benefits of its business environment reforms 
given that its ranking in the Doing Business report has considerably improved. As a result of its 
expedited business start-up procedures, Djibouti is in fact sixth among the world's top reformers 
following an exemplary leap of 61 places in the 2014 ranking. The establishment of businesses by 
economic operators thus now takes four days and involves three steps instead of nine, as was the 
case previously. 
6.12.  With regard to customs, Djibouti has acquired the Asycuda WORLD integrated system. As a 
result, the Djiboutian customs administration is in a position to set up a fully automated accounting system, an electronic customs declaration (e clearance) for use by economic operators, 
and the rationalization of budget estimates. 
6.13.  Two bodies specialized in the promotion of intellectual property, namely the Djiboutian 
Office of Industrial and Commercial Property  (ODPIC) and the Djiboutian Copyright and 
Neighbouring Rights Office (ODDA), have been created and there are plans for an international 
court of arbitration in the near future to ensure improved handling of commercial litigation and the diversification of dispute settlement bodies. 
6.14.  Last but not least, as far as reform measures are concerned, was the adoption by Djibouti in 
July 2012 of a new Commercial Code that has cons iderably improved the business environment by 
eliminating the minimum capital requirement, thereby enabling businesses start-up costs to be reduced. The new Code has also broadened the scope of the legal forms of companies registered in 
Djibouti. 
6.15.  In addition to institutional and legal reforms, Djibouti has launched a long term national 
development strategy known as "Vision 2035", the main pillars of which are diversification of 
sources of growth, enhancement of competitiven ess, human capital development, and regional 
integration. 
Trade policy regime: framework and objectives 
6.16.  In 2010 the Republic of Djibouti adopted a Na tional Trade Development Strategy for the 
period 2011 2015. The mid-term appraisal of this strategy revealed that a 59% implementation 
rate had been achieved. The National Trade Development Strategy already has a number of achievements to its credit. Other issues, however, remain to be addressed and obviously require 
the involvement and support of all trade policy stak eholders – public services, the private sector 
and civil society. 
6.17.  A new trade strategy in this same spirit will be  adopted next year. It will constitute one of 
the thrusts of the Strategy for Accelerated Growth  and Employment Creation (SCAPE), which is the 
framework that operationalizes "Vision 2035". 
Regional integration 
6.18.  Regional integration, which has always been at the heart of Djibouti's trade policy, will 
continue to play a central role in the future trade development strategy. All major investment in recent years has been conceived with a view to meeting the infrastructure and interconnectivity 
needs of the IGAD and COMESA countries for which the Republic of Djibouti is striving to become 
the gateway. 
6.19.  The forthcoming accession of our leading partner in the region, Ethiopia, to the COMESA 
free trade area brings us a step closer towards our goal. 
6.20.  The commercial tradition of the Republic of Djibouti, a land of exchanges and encounters, 
thus gives rise to reforms and initiatives geared towards development and trade facilitation. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  6.21.  Djibouti firmly believes that all of these measures and reforms must be notified to the WTO 
to enhance the transparency and predictability of our business and trade environment. It is for this 
reason that we have reformed the institutional organization of the Ministry of Trade and created under its ambit a sub directorate for multilateral integration that will be responsible for monitoring 
and implementing our WTO commitments. Technical assistance with notifications would, moreover, 
be particularly useful. 
Trade policies and practices by measure 
6.22.  As previously stated, the Djiboutian custom s administration decided to implement the 
ASYCUDA World system and it is currently in operation at all points of entry and exit for goods. The software has enabled the interconnection of all shipping agencies and the electronic receipt of manifests three days prior to vessel arrival. All freight forwarders submit customs declarations via 
this system from their own offices. The system  has also enabled the interconnection of the 
Djiboutian and Ethiopian customs authorities. 
6.23.  From 2009, the date of the introduction of value added tax, to 2014, global levies on 
imports declined from 28% to 21%. 
6.24.  Furthermore, the Djiboutian customs administration, in cooperation with the Ministry of 
T r a d e ,  p l a n s  t o  c r e a t e  a  s i n g l e  w i n d o w  f o r  f o r e ign trade in the near future, with a view to 
enhanced trade facilitation and expedited customs procedures. 
6.25.  A number of friendly countries have questioned the definition of customs value. In this 
respect, the Djiboutian customs administration generally implements WTO customs valuation rules. In certain cases, however, it is confronted during goods clearance with invoices that fail to 
meet international standards. For this reason it conducts physical checks to determine the customs 
value in accordance with the indicative values of the declared goods. To ensure more effective implementation of WTO customs valuation rules, technical assistance from the Organization is 
imperative. 
6.26.  It goes without saying that the Republic of Djibouti, by the very nature of its liberal 
economy, grants all natural or legal persons   Djiboutian or foreign   the freedom to engage in a 
business activity, including importation. Imports of certain categories of goods, however, are 
subject to special permits issued by the relevant technical ministries. These permits are granted on a case by case basis according to the product in question. 
6.27.  In connection with trade facilitation and the diversification of Djibouti's productive base, free 
zones, subject to a specific Code, have been established. This Free Zone Code provides for greater 
flexibility with regard to recruitment of labour and procedures for establishments, as well as various tax exemptions and physical facilities. 
6.28.  In 2009, Djibouti also carried out a major reform of its legal framework governing 
government procurement. This reform, undertaken with the support of the World Bank, led to the adoption of a new Government Procurement Code that is in full compliance with international 
procurement rules and procedures. 
6.29.  With regard to the methods for awarding procurement contracts, an issue of particular 
interest to our fellow WTO Members, international competitive bidding remains the general rule. Foreign bidders may, however, participate, even in a national competitive bidding process, 
provided that they are represented by a local su pplier or register a subsidiary of their parent 
company in Djibouti. 
6.30.  Lastly, the Republic of Djibouti has implemented the restructuring of intellectual property 
management bodies, with the creation of the Dj iboutian Office of Industrial and Commercial 
Property (ODPIC) in 2012 and the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Office in 2013. 
6.31.  Djibouti has also ratified international conventi ons: the WTO Protocol of Accession and all its 
Agreements, the Stockholm Convention, the Paris Convention, the Berne Convention, the Beijing 
Treaty of 2012 and the Marrakesh Treaty of 2014. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  Sectoral policies 
6.32.   In spite of the existence of several growth engine sectors, the cornerstone of Djibouti's 
economy is the services sector (almost 80%). The country does, however, wish to embark upon an economic diversification strategy. 
Fisheries 
6.33.  The Republic of Djibouti possesses extensive fisheries resources. Domestic demand is on a 
constant upward trend. Significant export opportuniti es also exist, in particular to Ethiopia, Europe 
and the Gulf States. The fisheries sector therefore stands out as a pillar fo r the future development 
of Djibouti and job creation. 
6.34.  The development model advocated for this sector is based exclusively on artisanal fishing 
and its aim is threefold: to intensify exploitation of large demersals, to exploit small pelagic fish 
resources, and to test new kinds of fisheries, in  particular mollusc and crustacean fisheries, while 
promoting aquaculture. 
6.35.  This vision of the development of the fisheries sector will enable catch levels to be boosted 
to more than 10,000 tonnes by 2020 and more than 3,000 direct jobs to be created. Achieving this 
ambition will require a proper fisheries policy to be formulated and implemented and institutional capacity to be built, without neglecting the provision of training support for the main sector 
stakeholders. 
Energy sector 6.36.  With a target of 100% renewable energy genera tion by 2020, Djibouti seeks to establish a 
suitable, specific framework based on a transparent process for obtaining permits and providing 
developers with the studies and data required for exploration and exploitation. 
6.37.  In addition to the creation of new activities , the development of the energy sector is in 
answer to the need to reduce factors of production, including the cost of energy which is 
hampering industry development. 
Financial services sector 6.38.  The financial services sector, with a contribution to GDP of 13% in 2013, has been 
continually evolving for several years. The bankin g subsector is liberalized and not subject to any 
discrimination or restriction. 
6.39.  The insurance subsector alone is subject to a qu alification requirement in the case of foreign 
operators who must cede 50% of their company's equity to a Djiboutian national and place at least 
10% of their reinsurance cessions with COMESA's reinsurance company "ZEP RE". 
New information technologies 6.40.  The development strategy for information and communications technologies (ICT) is built on 
the development of a vision for this sector aimed at generating the following: 
 A positive effect on GDP; 
 The transformation of information and communications technologies into a powerful tool 
for increased production, greater competitiveness and enhanced well-being; 
 Prospects for deregulation and liberalization wi th a particular focus on the public private 
partnership mechanism with international operators; 
 The gradual liberalization of the market over a ten year period will enable the 
repositioning of operator Djibouti Telecom's area of expertise and the opening of other 
market segments to private investors; WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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   The gradual opening of the market will  lead to reliance on the existing 
telecommunications infrastructure to promote the development of employment 
generating activities. 
Postal sector 
6.41.  As regards the postal sector, the Government has adopted a plan of action for postal 
services. The reforms will aim to develop an accessible, affordable and high quality universal postal service, to establish an appropriate legal and regulatory framework consistent with 
international best practice, and to develop a competitive market environment conducive to the 
participation of trade operators. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  7  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF MAURITIUS AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS 
7.1.  I wish to, once again, thank you personally, Madam Chair, our discussant Ambassador 
Duque, the Secretariat and the Members of the WTO for your active support and participation in the trade policy review of Mauritius. We apprecia te the vibrancy of the comments made and the 
questions raised as well as the opportunity prov ided to us earlier to give written answers. 
7.2.  In my opening statement, I explained the daunting challenges faced by the Government of 
Mauritius to implement the right policy mix in the face of the global economic downturn. In 
response to this, Mauritius chose a market-driven approach, transparency and rules-based 
economic management alongside policies aimed at inclusive growth, economic empowerment and social measures targeted at the most vulnerable. These measures translated into the resilience shown by the Mauritian economy in the face of global economic downturn. 
7.3.  As indicated in the first session, Mauritius has,  since 2006, been implementing an ambitious, 
all inclusive economic reform program which has ge nerated growth. One of the key features of the 
Government program is the democratization of the economy to ensure that equal opportunities are 
provided to all segments of society.   
7.4.  A National Empowerment Foundation was set up in 2008 and is responsible, inter alia , for 
re-training of retrenched workers, promoting entrepreneurship among SMEs for supporting low 
income and vulnerable groups to enable them take advantage of economic opportunities. 
7.5.  As part of consolidating our governance framework, an Equal Opportunities Commission was 
set up in 2012 under the Equal Opportunities Act to ensure equity and fairness. 
7.6.  Further, the Mauritius Africa Strategy aims at expanding the circle of opportunities for all, 
including SMEs and supporting, to the extent po ssible, the development of the Continent through 
investments and capacity building. The 50 Scholarships granted by Mauritius to African Countries must be seen from this perspective.  
7.7.  As indicated by some Members, Mauritius continues to face several challenges as a result of 
fragile world economic conditions. It also has a current account deficit and low savings rate. 
7.8.  Among the steps adopted to address the above, is the opening up of new export 
opportunities and a view to increase the volume and value of exports with the expectation that this 
would narrow the gap between imports and exports.   
7.9.  Our regional agenda implemented by way of  our membership in the Southern African 
Development Community (SADC), the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), 
the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC), the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), the Tripartite 
Initiative, as well as the Accelerated Programme for Economic Integration (APEI), goes in the direction of enlarging economic space, boosting  South-South trade and investments and promoting 
regional infrastructure development.   
7.10.  The objective of diversifying markets has led to the conclusion of trade agreements with 
Turkey and Pakistan and is currently undertaking negotiations with Tunisia for the same purpose. 
An agreement reached with India awaits signature.   
7.11.  To further support market access initiatives, Enterprise Mauritius, the trade promotion arm 
of Government has stepped up trade promotion acti vities in various markets and provides support 
to small and medium sized enterprises to participate in trade fairs and exhibitions.   
7.12.  Enterprise Mauritius also organises a yearly trade exhibition, MAITEX, which brings together 
traders from Mauritius and from Africa to interact and do business. Support is also provided by Government to Export Oriented Enterprises with a view to helping them improve their 
competitiveness through consultancies, diversification of product mix and improvement of the 
quality of goods produced for exports. Other prac tical measures include the establishment of an 
interactive trade portal to assist operators.   WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
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  7.13.  We welcome the proposal made to develop jointly with the US, for instance, new strategies 
to fully avail of the benefits of AGOA and to collaborate with Members to boost bilateral trade. The 
timely renewal of AGOA which is set to expire in 2015 is vital for Mauritius and other AGOA eligible countries to prevent the disruption of trade on that market. We are therefore comforted by the 
assurances of the US, both at the US-Africa Wash ington Summit and during our first session here 
that work is ongoing to secure a seamless renewal of AGOA. 
7.14.  It has been suggested that there may be need for Mauritius to rebalance its economic 
fundamentals. Indeed, let me say that we are alre ady developing new poles of growth such as the 
ocean economy, health and education services, aviation and maritime hubs and, currently, Mauritius is positioning itself as a gateway for investors to Africa. To position Mauritius as an International Arbitration Centre, an International Arbitration Act was enacted in 2008. A 
Permanent Court of Arbitration (Mauritius) opened office in September 2010 with the objective of 
promoting the pacific settlement of international disputes arising out of bilateral and multilateral treaties. The Court has already heard its first case and looks forward to more in the near future. 
7.15.  To stimulate savings, the Bank of Mauritius issues bonds in addition to measures being 
promoted to diversify th e savings portfolio. A new three-year Government of Mauritius Savings 
Bond has been issued at a fixed interest rate of 5.25% per year as from 1 September 2014 and a 
five year Government of Mauritius Savings Bo nd to the public has also been issued.  
7.16.  Several delegations commended Mauritius for the steps taken to liberalize certain State 
trading activities. Allow me to state here that such activities are conducted on a commercial basis in line with the WTO Agreement of State Trading Enterprises. This notwithstanding, I wish to 
highlight that State Trading Enterprises can have an important role to play in ensuring security of 
supply for Small Island Developing States.  
7.17.  Some delegates have also pointed out that State intervention still remains quite pervasive. 
Since 2008, the Mauritius State Investment Corporation (SIC) has been adopting policies to move 
out of commercial activities and to focus instead on strategic investments.  
7.18.  The Casino de Maurice and "Domaine Les Pailles" are examples of Government 
disinvestment. It is to be further noted that all economic sectors in Mauritius, including those 
where the Government has a stake, are subject to competition law, save for the import of fuel which is a strategic product. 
7.19.  In the same vein, some Members indicated that the State, in the form of parastatals like 
telecoms, air transport and financial services intervenes in economic activities. Let me reiterate 
that Mauritius is a small island economy where Government intervention is sometimes required to inject a certain degree of competition. Let me refe r to the specific examples of the State Bank of 
Mauritius (SBM) and the State Insurance Company of Mauritius (SICOM), which were created to 
provide wider choices and to further support the development of the country. Mauritius Telecom, 
which was fully state-owned, now has a foreign strategic partner. In addition, there is a 
multiplicity of operators in the telecommunication sectors both for mobile and fixed line services. 
7.20.  It is to be noted that a first step towards privatization of audiovisual services was 
announced in the 2013 budget for entertainment TV . This issue, however, remains complex as 
demonstrated by the carve-out under the General Agreement on Trade in Services. 
Trade policies 
7.21.  Mauritius has taken steps to streamline import and export procedures which have resulted 
in the elimination of some 26 import and export permits. However, some licensing requirement 
still prevails, as indicated in the case of poultry and pork for food security purposes. 
7.22.  Government has established a joint public-private sector working group to identify additional 
measures to be taken to further streamline trade procedures. Let me also note that all export 
taxes have been eliminated.   WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
WT/TPR/M/305 • Djibouti 
 
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  7.23.  As far as import taxation is concerned, it has already been indicated that some 90% of tariff 
lines are already duty-free. While a specific duty exists on some clothing items, these are limited 
in scope and are subject to review on a progressive basis.   
7.24.  Specific questions were also raised in respect of the procurement policy of Mauritius, in 
particular, as to whether Mauritius intends to join the Government Procurement Agreement (GPA). 
Consideration is being given to the possibility for Mauritius to join the GPA as an Observer. As to the possibility of implementing an electronic te ndering system, such a system already exists. All 
tender documents can be accessed online. In addition, all tenders above 200 million Rupees 
(approximately US$6.5 million) are mandatorily opened to international bidding. 
7.25.  Regarding comments made on our intellectual property policy, Mauritius is committed to 
implementing a new IP policy which involves enforcement of the new 2014 Copyright Act, the 
adoption of a comprehensive Industrial Property  Bill and the establishment of an empowered 
Intellectual Property Office and Intellectual Property Council. 
7.26.  To a specific question as to the functions of these new institutions, it is to be noted that the 
IP Office will, in addition to registration of trad emarks, patents and industrial design be responsible 
to, inter alia : 
 Implement strategies, programs and action plans for IP development; 
 Issue guidelines for IP matters; 
 Collect and maintain Data on IP; and 
 Create awareness and undertaken sensitization campaigns to better inform people about IP. 
7.27.  The IP Council on its part will bring together all the institutions dealing with IP for a more 
coherent and coordinated approach towards IP matters and provide guidance in the design and 
implementation of IP policies. 
7.28.  Several questions referred to the outstanding notifications of Mauritius to the WTO. I wish to 
indicate that Mauritius has already submitted four sets of notifications on State trading 
enterprises, subsidies and countervailing measures, import licensing procedures and on services. Notification on the bilateral agreement with Pakistan was recently discussed at the 
Mauritius-Pakistan Joint Working Group and we trust that a joint notification can be submitted. 
7.29.  With regard to the RTA under the Indian Ocean Commission applicable to Mauritius and 
Madagascar, it is to be emphasized that this Agreement has been subsumed within the COMESA FTA which has already been notified to the WTO. The remaining notifications on Quantitative 
Restrictions, TRIPS enforcement and Agriculture Subsidies are being finalized and will be 
submitted shortly. Let me also inform Members that Mauritius is planning to organize a capacity building workshop on WTO notifications jointly with the Secretariat in January 2015 and is 
proposing to establish a plan for timely notifications to the WTO. 
Sectoral policies 7.30.  The objective of the Government is to consolidate the traditional sectors and to develop new 
poles of growth especially in the services sector. In this context, a multi-annual adaptation 
strategy plan (2010-2015) is being implemented to  restructure the sugar sector and diversify the 
range of products within the cane cluster, in particular, the increase in the production of energy from bagasse, and development of other by-produ cts such as ethanol and rum. We are already 
producers of rum and we have already a factory producing ethanol.  
7.31.  As regards the manufacturing sector, the focus is to move upmarket and diversify the 
product range in high tech sectors such as precision engineering, medical devices, jewellery 
making, textiles and bio-based products. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
WT/TPR/M/305 • Djibouti 
 
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  7.32.  Several delegations requested more information about the Government's roadmap on the 
ocean economy. Let me draw your attention that Mauritius manages a Maritime zone of 2.3 million 
km2. The figures do not mean very much but it is probably the size of France and Germany put together. That is the kind of ocean territory we have. Part of this ocean territory of about 400 
thousand square kilometres is jointly managed with the Seychelles and we can be seen as an 
ocean economy. The potential for economic advancement and prosperity that this resource can generate, if developed in a sustainable way, could take Mauritius to its next development level – 
that of evolving into a high income country. However, the development of this sector will require 
massive investment, technology transfer and know-how. The National Task force on this issue has already identified seven priority clusters for development purposes. These are as follows:   
 Seabed exploration for hydrocarbons and minerals; 
 Fishing, seafood and aquaculture; 
 Deep ocean water applications; 
 Marine services; 
 Seaport-related activities; 
 Marine renewable energies; and 
 Ocean knowledge. 
7.33.  A legal and regulatory framework for the ocean economy is being developed and an Ocean 
Centre of Excellence is expected to be set up with clearly defined research functions. A skills development programme and an ocean economic indicator are also being developed. I wish to underscore that the development of this sector is  in line with the fundamentals of economic 
efficiency, equity, ecology, social partnership, sa fety and fully in compliance with international 
obligations. 
7.34.  We welcome the interest shown by a number of delegations such as the EU and Canada in 
the plans of Mauritius for developing its ocean economy and in particular Canada's offer for sharing 
of expertise. Central to the ocean economy strate gy are the development of the port sector and 
the transformation of Mauritius into a Seafood Hub. 
7.35.  The Government's objective is to transform the Port-Louis Harbour into a regional maritime, 
logistics and business hub while at the same time being an effective conduit for trade in the region.   
7.36.  As part of our Seafood strategy, Mauritius intends to register more fishing vessels to supply 
under our processing factories with raw materi als. Seafood processing represents a major 
component of ocean-related activities and is expected to play a central role in export 
diversification and consolidation of food security. 
7.37.  At the same time, the Government also aims at building a local fleet capacity so as not to 
rely solely on licensed foreign fishing vessels. Substantial investment have been made, namely by Sapmer France and by Chinese investors.   
7.38.  Sustainable development remains central to the economic model of Mauritius. A priority of 
the Maurice-Ile Durable Project will be to achiev e 35% of the national energy supply through the 
use of renewable sources. 
7.39.  We trust that we have provided clarifications on the queries raised by Members in their 
interventions in addition to the written responses already given to questions received earlier. We 
shall be glad to provide any further information that may be required.  WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
WT/TPR/M/305 • Djibouti 
 
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  7.40.  Let me now reiterate my high appreciation to ev eryone present here for this review exercise 
and to reiterate the commitment of Mauritius to  the advancement of the multilateral trading 
system. 
DISCUSSANT 
7.41.  I would like to express renewed thanks to the delegation of Djibouti, led by 
His Excellency Mr Hassan Ahmed Boulaleh, Minister Delegate for Trade, and the delegation of Mauritius, headed by Her Excellency Mrs Usha Dwarka-Canabady, Secretary for Foreign Affairs, 
for their valuable contributions and constructive participation in this review. Their statements 
today were both clear and comprehensive. I also thank the delegations taking part in the review for their questions and comments, and the Secretariat for its contributions. 
7.42.  I do not intend to elaborate today on every highlighted aspect of the reforms implemented 
by these countries or on the questions raised by  Members in the course of this review. I would 
merely like to share a few conclusions that I have drawn from our valuable discussions during these two days. 
7.43.  First I would like to emphasize the "value added" provided by these reviews, not only 
because they contribute to greater transparency and a better understanding of the trade policies 
and practices of the Member under review, but also  because they offer us the opportunity to draw 
lessons from them. Moreover, they allow us to give input and suggestions as to possible ways 
of improving these policies and practices, in orde r to further the country's economic development 
and its integration in global trade and investment flows. This exercise is a win-win for everyone. 
7.44.  As regards the specific issues raised, there are a number of similarities between the two 
Members under review. 
7.45.  The first is the participants' recognition of the two countries' positive economic performance 
i n  r e c e n t  y e a r s .  A s  I  e m p h a s i z e d  i n  m y  s t atement on Wednesday, both have successfully 
overcome the effects of the global crisis. The appropriate direction of their economic policies 
during the review period, evidenced by sound macroeconomic and fiscal management, along with a number of reforms at micro and institutional level, have set a healthy pace for growth and have 
brought gains in terms of competiveness and the business climate. 
7.46.  Both countries have set an example in the way in which they have addressed a difficult 
economic situation. They have clearly identified and taken the necessary measures, whilst working to define the plans and actions required to maintain their rates of growth over the coming years. 
The overriding challenge for the future will reside in their ability to implement and deliver on these 
plans. This will require them, among other thin gs, to pursue their capacity-building efforts. 
7.47.  The second similarity is that, in addition to prudent macroeconomic management, both 
countries need to push ahead with reforms relating to the business climate and policies to attract 
foreign investment. Foreign investment will play a major role in helping them achieve their economic diversification objectives and is one of the most critical areas they need to work on. 
In this connection, it is also important for them to pursue their efforts to open up and privatize 
certain economic sectors, as some Members have pointed out. 
7.48.  The third similarity concerns a point that I find especially interesting. Both economies have 
placed at the heart of their development strategy the need to integrate more effectively with the 
rest of the world and they are already greatly benefiting from this approach. In addition to the 
remarkable efforts they are making at the regional level, which I see as presenting major short-term opportunities and challenges, I especially welcome the clear commitment shown by 
Djibouti and Mauritius to this Organization and the Doha Round. 
7.49.  Both countries played an important role in developing the "Bali Package" and have 
expressed firm commitment to its prompt im plementation. As regards the Bali outcomes, 
both countries have also placed high priority on  the Trade Facilitation Agreement, as this is 
an area in which they are making good progress at the domestic level and which has delivered tangible benefits for them. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
WT/TPR/M/305 • Djibouti 
 
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  7.50.  Turning to the fourth similarity, I cannot end my conclusions without re-emphasizing the 
i m p o r t a n c e  o f  m o v i n g  a h e a d  w i t h  n o t i f i c a t i o n s ,  a s  t h i s  i s  a n  a r e a  i n  w h i c h  t h e r e  i s  r o o m  f o r  
improvement for both countries, and today there has been mention of concrete steps. As I said on 
Wednesday, the submission of full and timely notifications is a very important component of the 
multilateral trading system. 
7.51.  And now on to a few short personal comments: I wish the authorities of Djibouti all the very 
best in making rapid progress towards their objective of consolidating the country's position as 
a regional transport, logistics and financial hub. As regards the latter, it might be helpful – which 
the authorities may be considering - to undertake commitments in that respect in this Organization. Lastly, I would emphasize that economic diversification and implementing the policies designed for that purpose remain Djibouti's overriding challenge. 
7.52.  Turning to Mauritius, I welcome the outstanding results it has achieved in recent years and 
especially its emphasis on competitiveness, sustainable growth and innovation as key development components. The strategy it has chosen appears to be the right one. The main challenge will be to 
stay on track and address the many challenges involved in implementing this strategy. 
7.53.  Lastly, I would like to say that it has been a very enlightening experience for me to have the 
honour of participating as the discussant in this review. Not only do I have the firm intention of 
visiting both countries, but I also propose to draw my country's attention to the very interesting 
opportunities offered by both Djibouti and Mauritius as trading partners, and to the lessons and experiences they can offer us regarding the commo n objective we have, as developing countries, 
of moving forward along the path of economic growth, social inclusion and well-being for our 
populations. Thank you. 
UNITED
 STATES 
7.54.  I would just like to express the regard of th e United States to both the delegations of 
Mauritius and Djibouti for their constructive participation in the TPR. We read with interest the 
answers to questions and we have some follow-up questions which we submitted for Mauritius. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
WT/TPR/M/305 • Djibouti 
 
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  8  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON 
8.1.  This first joint Trade Policy Review of Djibou ti and Mauritius, which constitutes the second 
review of Djibouti and the fourth of Mauritius, has offered a unique framework for discussion of both countries' trade and related policies and practices. Comprehensive reports by the WTO 
Secretariat, the Governments of Djibouti and Maur itius, together with insightful comments by our 
discussant H.E. Gabriel Duque, Ambassador of Co lombia, and valuable interventions by Members 
have stimulated our dialogue during this two-day session. 
8.2.  I would like to praise the full participation of the high-level delegations, led by H.E. 
Mr. Hassan Ahmed Boulaleh, Minister Delegate for Trade of Djibouti, and by H.E. Mrs. Usha Dwarka-Canabady, Secretary for Foreign Affairs of  M a u r i t i u s ,  a s  w e l l  a s  t h e  r e s t  o f  t h e  t w o  
delegations, including H.E. Mr. Mohamed Siad Douale, Ambassador and Permanent Representative 
of Djibouti and H.E. Mr. Israhyananda Dhallad oo, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of 
Mauritius. 
8.3.  Members recognized that Djibouti and Mauritius are both small countries highly exposed to 
exogenous shocks, including fluctuating international market and climatic conditions. Both 
countries have recorded relatively good GDP growth in spite of the global economic crisis. Development strategies are being implemented to further stimulate long term growth and improve 
living standards. Members commended both Djibouti  and Mauritius on their ongoing reform efforts 
to facilitate trade and further improve their business environments including through the dismantling of their remaining restrictions to investment and through investment in relevant infrastructure. They urged Mauritius to ensure that its import permit system is not used to protect 
domestic producers, and Djibouti to fully implement the WTO Customs Valuation Agreement. Some 
Members encouraged both countries to ensure the sustainability of their ongoing reforms with a 
view to further diversifying their economies, particularly in the case of Djibouti.  
8.4.  Members commended Djibouti and Mauritius for their support to the multilateral trading 
system; and congratulated Mauritius for having already submitted its trade facilitation category A commitments. Djibouti and Mauritius were also encouraged to meet their notification obligations 
and to further align their procedures for developing and implementing standards and technical 
regulations with international norms. Given the constraints faced by both countries, technical assistance from other WTO Members in this matter would be most helpful. 
8.5.  Noting that Djibouti and Mauritius were promoting their regional trade flows and economic 
development under COMESA, Members sought inform ation about progress made so far in ensuring 
smoother and more effective implementation of this Regional Trade Agreement.  
8.6.  Members also questioned the effectiveness and consistency of tax policies and practices in 
Djibouti and Mauritius. Some Members expressed concerns about the possible distortive effects of 
Djibouti's taxation system on business development. Attention was drawn to Mauritius' low level of tariff bindings, while its recent tariff liberalization was appreciated. Mauritius was also asked to 
comply with its national treatment commitments when imposing excise taxes on spirit drinks. 
8.7.  Members were appreciative of steps taken by Djibouti and Mauritius to improve their 
regulatory frameworks. Both countries have undertaken initiatives towards strengthening their intellectual property rights regimes. They were ur ged to accelerate their efforts in this regard and 
ensure their full participation in related treaties. Members took note of the large-scale State 
intervention in both economies, and sought further clarifications on state-owned enterprises in Mauritius and the standstill in privatization processes in Djibouti. Some Members sought 
information about foreign participation in government procurement, in particular existing 
mechanisms to ensure internationally competitive bidding processes.  
8.8.  Members welcomed agricultural reforms in Mauritius, and energy and services reforms in 
both countries. They believed that further openness in these sectors should continue, with a view 
to attracting more investment flows.  
8.9.  Members appreciated the oral and written resp onses to their questions provided by both 
delegations, and look forward to receiving further written responses to outstanding questions 
within one month. WT/TPR/M/304 • Mauritius 
WT/TPR/M/305 • Djibouti 
 
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  8.10.  This successfully concludes the joint Review of Djibouti and Mauritius. Members have shown 
a keen interest in their trade and related policies and their participation in the WTO. I encourage 
the two countries under review to take Members' concerns into account in order to enrich their reform processes. I also invite Members to grant special support to Djibouti, given its LDC status, 
and to assist both Djibouti and Mauritius in meeting their respective challenges. 
 
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