Includes web links to local trade fair or show authorities and local newspapers, trade publications, radio/TV/cable information.

The advertising industry in Mauritius is quite sophisticated and advertising is essential to the successful launch of a product or service.  U.S. exporters should be prepared to provide promotional support to their agents and distributors, particularly when introducing a new product to the market.  Advertising can be in English, French, or Creole (the local dialect).  Companies should consider radio, billboards, print media, and television as part of their campaign.  Media deregulation has introduced more competition via three independent radio stations, but the government-run Mauritius Broadcasting Corporation remains the only local television broadcaster.  Consumer goods account for most advertising, followed by durables and services (banking, insurance, information technology, education).

There are about 200 advertising agencies in Mauritius.  The Association of Communication Agencies (ACA) of Mauritius is a trade group of the 20 largest agencies and accounts for 70 percent of the market.  These agencies provide a full range of marketing services, including media planning, market surveys, and creation of advertising materials.  Advertising agencies normally obtain a 20 percent commission from any media booking.  Multinational companies tend to work on a service fee basis rather than commission.  The ACA may be contacted at:

Association of Communication Agencies of Mauritius 
P.O. Box 522, Port Louis, Mauritius
Tel: +230 286-7330
Fax:+230 286-7334
Email:  acamauritius@intnet.mu 

There are three major daily newspapers and many weeklies.  Most are in French but they do carry some articles and advertisements in English.  L’Express Weekly and News on Sunday are the only major newspapers entirely in English.  Major newspapers and business magazines include:

Prepared by our U.S. Embassies abroad. With its network of 108 offices across the United States and in more than 75 countries, the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce utilizes its global presence and international marketing expertise to help U.S. companies sell their products and services worldwide. Locate the U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist in the U.S. nearest you by visiting http://export.gov/usoffices.