In order to transition the trade agreements that the European Union (EU) has concluded with third countries, the UK agreed to continue the effect of its current arrangements through the EU by signing separate continuity agreements with many third countries. To that effect, the United Kingdom -Eastern and Southern Africa Economic Partnership Agreement (the “UK-ESA EPA") - based on the EU –ESA interim Economic Partnership Agreement (the “EU-ESA EPA") was concluded in 2019. The UK-ESA EPA is effective as from 1 January 2021.

Similar to terms applied in the EU- ESA EPA, Mauritius will benefit from duty free, quota free access on all products, including that of high export interest such as sugar, tuna, garments, agro processed products. The Rules of Origin applicable are similar as well.

As per the Agreement, Mauritius, Seychelles and Madagascar will share the following quota:
• An automatic derogation of 6,200 tons of non-originating tuna that can be used in the production of canned tuna and 341 tonnes of tuna loins

In a view to further foster negotiations between the ESA and the UK on areas not currently covered by the UK-ESA EPA such as trade in services, investment, trade facilitation, competition policy, trade facilitation, a Rendez-Vous clause is included in the Agreement.

To obtain more information on the UK-ESA EPA at the below link: click Here