Enabling Laws

Mauritius: An International Financial Centre

Mauritius enjoys a solid reputation as an International Financial Centre. It has built itself a solid reputation as a secure and reliable investment hub in terms of good governance, transparency and judicial independence.

Mauritius has a dual legal system, combining the advantages of Common & Civil Law. The statutes are based mainly on old French codes and on more recent laws with English precedents. The Supreme Court of Mauritius has a Chief Justice, a Senior Puisne Judge and 18 other Puisne Judges who also serve on the Court of Criminal Appeal and the Court of Civil Appeal. The final appeal can be made to the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council, UK.

Foundations Act 2012

The Foundation is an alternative vehicle to a Trust and is convenient for succession planning and private wealth management.

Financial Services Act 2007

This legislation put forward the framework for licensing and supervision of the Non-Banking Financial Institutions in Mauritius.

Securities Act 2005

Framework regulating the securities market to keep up to date in terms of international best practices and standards.

Banking Act 2004

The Banking Act 2004 is the enabling legislation for all financial institutions falling under the purview of the Bank of Mauritius.

Financial Intelligence and Anti-Money Laundering Act 2002

A legislative framework to fight Money Laundering and Financing of Terrorism.

Companies Act 2001

Companies Act 2001 applies to all companies in Mauritius, including those operating with a Global Business License.

Trust Act 2001

Framework regulating and allowing for the creation of different types of trusts, which may be set up by residents and non-residents alike.

Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) Act 2000

Like a company, an LLP is a body corporate and therefore a separate legal entity and an LLP member’s liability is limited. Like a partnership the relationship between the LLP members is governed by a private agreement.

Protected Cell Companies Act 1999

A Protected Cell Company is a single legal corporate vehicle within which multiple legal identities may be established in the form of cells. It is governed both by the Companies Act 2001 and the Protected Cell Companies Act 1999.

Income Tax Act 1995

This act englobes the tax liability of all corporate bodies and individuals. The personal income and corporate tax rates are at a flat rate of 15%. Other taxes include a value added tax. The overall tax burden equals 18.6% of total domestic income.