The Finance (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2023 (the “Finance Act 2023”) was enacted by the Mauritian Parliament and, on 20 July 2023, received presidential assent.  It amends numerous primary enactments in Mauritius mainly in order to give effect to the budgetary measures announced by the Honourable Minister of Finance in his budget speech 2023-2024 delivered on 02 June 2023.

Reflecting the Budget Speech, the Finance Act 2023 gives a strong indication of the Government’s continued commitment to assist the population with the higher cost of living witnessed since last year.  To name a few measures, the financial assistance for payment of salary compensation has been renewed for eligible employees for another year and child allowance is paid in respect of under 3 year olds.  The combination of new grades of income tax and extension of personal reliefs and deductions will also result in more disposable income for working people.  The repeal of solidarity levy on individuals is a welcome measure that removes an additional tax burden and will encourage the recruitment of highly-skilled employees by businesses.

The amendments to the Workers’ Rights Act demonstrate an ongoing willingness to improve conditions of employment, of which businesses will have to take good note and ensure compliance with.

The Finance Act 2023, like its predecessors also contains a number of business facilitation measures as well as tighter regulation in certain areas.

This publication provides an overview of some of the key measures passed in the Finance Act 2023.