A green industry for sustainable trade strategies: the case of the manufacturing sector in Mauritius

The global environmental change indicates that there is a need to modify conventional industrial development pathways to promote green enterprises that are resource and energy efficient, low waste, non-polluting, and safe. This study describes green initiatives which export-oriented textile enterprises in the Republic of Mauritius have implemented in recent years. While the textile-led Export Processing Zone has contributed to position the island among the high performing economies in Sub-Saharan Africa, it faces new economic challenges. Through a survey, it is observed that green strategies have proved necessary to regain economic competitiveness at international level. Critical success factors include the commitment of top management, access to capital and information on green opportunities, and development of skill, expertise and training on sustainable production systems. The paper recommends to rethink state intervention and to foster dialogue with national and international organisations to create the necessary synergies between green industry, trade and competitiveness.