Landscope Prepares 20 Serviced Plots at Côte-d’Or for Global High-Tech Projects

MAURITIUS is pivoting towards a high-tech future with the launch of a dedicated Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Côte-d’Or, specifically designed to attract global investment in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the digital economy.

The project, spearheaded by the government and implemented by Landscope (Mauritius) Ltd, represents a strategic shift away from traditional real estate and financial investment.

According to Landscope CEO Rajen Seetohul, the zone aims to attract “more significant and productive” foreign direct investment to stimulate exports and foster long-term growth.

A Digital Hub for Africa

The Côte-d’Or SEZ will focus exclusively on digital sectors, AI, and advanced manufacturing.

Speaking at the recent AI Impact Summit in India, the Prime Minister positioned Mauritius as a credible technological platform for innovative firms eyeing African and international markets.

To support this, Landscope is preparing approximately 20 fully serviced plots of varying sizes.

While infrastructure works are expected to be completed by the end of this year, Mr Seetohul noted that a “reasonable” lead time of two to three years is expected before full economic activity begins, citing the complexity of the high-tech installations required.

Global Expertise Only

In a move to maximise international capital and expertise, the SEZ will be open exclusively to foreign companies.

“We will target foreign companies with the technological, financial, and material capacities necessary,” Mr Seetohul said.

The goal is to facilitate technology transfer and research collaborations, encouraging foreign firms to create qualified jobs and synergies with local Mauritian businesses.

Governance and Incentives

A new Steering Committee, currently being formed by the Prime Minister’s Office and the Ministry of Finance, will oversee the zone.

This body will include representatives from the Economic Development Board and Landscope to:

• Define priority sectors and innovation ecosystems.
• Select promoters and coordinate government ministries.
• Propose bespoke tax incentives and administrative simplifications.

A team is already developing a “competitive” package of incentives to ensure the SEZ can rival other regional technology hubs.

Strategic Gateway

The government is banking on the geostatistical position of Mauritius to lure investors.

By leveraging preferential trade agreements—including COMESA, SADC, and the CECPA with India—the Côte-d’Or SEZ is being marketed as a regional base for companies looking to radiate across the African continent.

While Indian investors are expected to be among the first to show interest, the zone remains open to all global players.

Mr Seetohul concluded that while total investment figures are difficult to estimate at this stage, the project is a “clear bet” on transforming Mauritius into a high-value technological catalyst.

Source: l’Express