Context (Fisheries & Aquaculture)

Mauritius boasts a vast exclusive economic zone (EEZ) extending some 2.2 million square kilometers, encompassing the coastlines of Mauritius, Rodrigues, St. Brandon (Cargados Carajos reefs), Agalega, Tromelin, and the Chagos Archipelago. Fishing activities are carried out in the coastal waters of the islands and on the banks and in oceanic waters.  

Types of Fisheries in Mauritius

The main types of fisheries practiced are namely:  

• Artisanal fishery i.e. the lagoons and near off-lagoon areas of the island;
• Banks and chilled fish fishery i.e. the St Brandon to Saya de Malha Banks, extending from 200 to 2100 km north of Mauritius;
• Industrial fishery (tuna);
• Sports or Recreational fishery i.e Big Game fishing (Marlin);
• Deep-sea demersal fishery;
• FAD fishery;
• Aquaculture (marine farming and freshwater).

Fish Production and Economic Impact 

In 2024, the local fish production reached 38,445 tonnes, while the export of fish and related products resulted in an impressive revenue of approximately Rs. 17 billion, representing around 20% of our national exports. 

The approximate relative contribution of the different fisheries to local fish production is as follows for the year 2024:  

• Industrial fisheries  87%
• Bank fisheries  4%
• Artisanal fisheries  3%
• Recreational fisheries  1%
• Aquaculture   5%  

Fishing Banks

Mauritius is home to fishing banks - underwater ecosystems teeming with diverse fish populations and visited by Mauritian vessels. 

Fishing banks are essentially underwater elevations that can take various forms.  These unique structures create diverse habitats that attract a wide range of fish species.  Coral reefs flourishing on these banks further add to the biodiversity, providing food and shelter for numerous fish. Fishing banks are considered as dependencies of Mauritius.

The major fishing banks in Mauritius Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) include:

 Hawkins Bank
 Saya de Malha Bank,
 Nazareth Bank
 Soudan Banks

More on Fishing Banks