Business
Auto Market Hits Record 746,961 Registrations in 2025
The Mauritian automotive industry has reached an absolute annual record of 746,961 immatriculations in 2025, a 5.1% increase from the previous year, despite a dramatic market cooling in the second half of the year following the introduction of new government taxes.
Newly released data shows that while 2024 saw 710,605 registrations, the record-breaking 2025 figure masks a volatile sales climate.
The market experienced an “exceptional” first six months as buyers rushed to finalise purchases before a tax hike, followed by a sharp contraction starting in July.
A Tale of Two Semesters
The market’s performance in 2025 was defined by two distinct phases:
- Phase One (Pre-July): A surge in registrations driven by “fiscal anticipation.” Buyers moved up their purchase dates to avoid new taxes announced for the latter half of the year. This peaked in June, where car registrations more than doubled compared to June 2024.
- Phase Two (Post-July): Following the implementation of the new tax laws, the market contracted significantly. Households and businesses began deferring or reconsidering investments due to the increased global cost of ownership, including insurance, fuel, and maintenance.
Segment Performance: Winners and Losers
While passenger cars remain the dominant segment with a 7.4% annual progression, the impact of the tax changes was felt across the board.
Out of the 26,526 new vehicles recorded in 2025, 14,711 were cars.
Notably, nearly 67% of these cars (9,856) were registered in the first half of the year, compared to the previous year when registrations were more evenly distributed.
| Vehicle Type | Growth Rate | Key Driver |
| Double Cab Pick-ups | +13.6% | High demand for versatile professional/family use. |
| Motorcycles | +5.3% | Shift toward affordable urban mobility. |
| Passenger Cars | +7.4% | Remained the market heart despite the H2 slump. |
| Heavy Utilities | Moderate | Linked to sector investment rather than household spend. |
The Rise of Asian Hegemony
The 2025 figures confirm a structural shift toward Asian manufacturers who offer local availability and competitive maintenance costs.
- Suzuki leads the market with 4,819 units.
- Kia and Toyota secured the second and third spots.
- BMW, Hyundai, and MG completed the top five.
The Slow Green Transition
The shift away from thermal engines (petrol and diesel) is described as “slow but perceptible.” Hybrid vehicles (HEV/PHEV) are seeing regular growth as an attractive “middle ground” for those reducing carbon footprints without sacrificing range.
Meanwhile, 100% electric vehicles (EVs) are growing rapidly from a modest base, though their future success remains tied to the development of charging infrastructure.
Economic Arbitrage
The report suggests that middle-income households are increasingly making “pragmatic” choices.
To master costs, many are turning to the second-hand market or opting for two-wheelers to navigate saturated urban centres.
As the industry looks toward 2026, the focus has shifted from pure volume to sustainability, financial adaptability, and shared mobility solutions.
Source: Le Mauricien