China continues to be Mauritius’ largest trade partner, supplying a significant portion of its imported goods. Importing from China has become more accessible, and TCF ensures seamless shipping services with affordable rates for both air and ocean freight.

Mauritius Customs Overview

Mauritius maintains a well-organized customs process. Import tariffs are applied as specific and ad valorem tariffs. The current ad valorem tariff rates range from 0% to 30%, with five main tariff bands: 0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 30%.

Customs duties are generally based on the CIF value (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) of the imported goods. Most imports are also subject to a 15% VAT (Value Added Tax).

Importing into Mauritius requires the completion of customs formalities, including the submission of a Customs Declaration (known as the Bill of Entry or BOE) through TradeNet. This declaration should detail the imported goods, their quantities, value, and nature, along with any applicable taxes and duties.

Essential documents for clearance include:

• Bill of Lading or Airway Bill
• Bill of Entry
• Invoice
• Packing List
• Insurance Certificate (if needed)
• Certificate of Origin (if applicable)

Mauritius-China Free Trade Agreement (FTA)

The Mauritius-China Free Trade Agreement is a landmark deal, being the first such agreement between China and an African nation. This agreement allows up to 96.3% of Chinese products and 94.2% of Mauritian products to benefit from zero tariffs.

Key exports from China to Mauritius, such as steel, textiles, and light industrial products, stand to gain from this FTA, while Mauritius’ special sugar is also gradually entering the Chinese market.

Get in touch with TCF to issue your own Certificate of Origin and take advantage of the FTA benefits.

Sea Freight from China to Mauritius

While sea freight may take longer, it offers a highly cost-effective solution, particularly for heavy shipments. Shippers can choose between:

• Full Container Load (FCL): Ideal for larger shipments that require an entire container.
• Less Than Container Load (LCL): A more economical option for smaller shipments, sharing space with other goods.

Key Port in Mauritius

Port Louis, located in northwest Mauritius, is the island’s only deep-water commercial port and a strategic hub connecting Africa, Europe, Asia, and Australia. With its 3 terminals and 16 berths, it handles 99% of the country’s foreign trade.

Estimated Sea Freight Cost from China to Mauritius

The current port-to-port container rate from Shenzhen to Port Louis is approximately $7,000 USD for a 40HC container (subject to market fluctuations).

Average Transit Time for Ocean Freight

Shipping from China to Mauritius via ocean freight typically takes around 25 days.

Air Freight from China to Mauritius

For faster shipping, TCF offers secure and efficient air freight services from China to Mauritius. Depending on your shipment’s urgency, we help you choose the best mode of air transport that fits your needs.

Key Airport in Mauritius

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport is the primary international gateway for Mauritius, with connections to over 30 cities across Europe, Asia, and Africa. Key routes include London, Paris, Frankfurt, Singapore, Hong Kong, Dubai, and Johannesburg.

Air Freight Costs

Air freight charges vary based on the weight and dimensions of the cargo. Bulky or heavier items typically incur higher costs. Additionally, peak shipping seasons and weather-related delays can impact pricing.

Air Freight Transit Time

Air shipping from China to Mauritius takes between 8-10 business days for economy options and 1-4 business days for express shipping.

Partner with TCF for Seamless Shipping

With our growing customer base in Mauritius, TCF has established strong partnerships with leading carriers such as COSCO, OOCL, APL, EMC, MSK, and HMM. These agreements enable us to provide competitive freight rates for shipments from China to Mauritius.

At TCF, we take care of all your shipping needs, from logistics planning to customs clearance. Leave your goods in our capable hands and focus on your business. Request a free quote today!