Why Chinese interest grows in Mauritius real estate

Programmes enabling foreigners to invest in Mauritius real estate have helped draw Chinese home buyers to the island. Some of these programmes were well in place when several factors whetted Chinese appetite for overseas properties.

The rise of tourists from China to the African region is one of the push factors for Chinese interest on properties for sale in Mauritius. In recent years, Chinese tourists consistently ranked amongst the top 10 foreign visitors in Mauritius.

Chinese real estate players have immediately seized the market potential on this growth of Chinese tourism. In 2011, Mauritius  emerged as the leading African country wherein China was investing in real estate, a study showed.

Headquarters scheme draws big Chinese firms

Besides tourism, Mauritius real estate’s appeal to Chinese interests has received a boost from the Mauritian government’s Regional Headquarters Scheme. This programme has attracted major Chinese companies, like Huawei and ZTE expanding their African interests. The expat Chinese executives and employees of these companies, together with their families, have consequently become an added market for real estate companies in Mauritius.

Much could be gained from the Regional Headquarters Scheme, especially on the standpoint of Chinese locators. Mauritius has easier visa arrangements with China than other African countries. Chinese companies locating their African operations in Mauritius can also benefit from the Mauritian double taxation agreements with 14 African countries.

Additionally, Chinese expats settling their families in Mauritius have as safer island environment to relocate in. Based on the 2020 peace index, Mauritius is notably the safest country in Africa. Moreover, direct flights are available between Mauritius and China.

High-end living in PDS real estate projects

Chinese nationals have the opportunity to purchase Mauritius real estate under the Property Development Scheme (PDS). This programme, which is open to all foreign buyers, covers luxurious developments of at least six residential developments. A purchase of a PDS residence worth not less than USD375,000 notably makes the buyer eligible to a residence permit.

PDS projects also impress buyers with their high-quality public spaces that contribute in promoting social and community interaction. High-end leisure and commercial facilities are likewise available to residents in these developments.

Other quaint perks await Chinese nationals living and working in Mauritius. The island is also home to a Sino-Mauritian community with a cultural footprint throughout the island. Comprising around 2-3 percent of the 1.3 million Mauritian population, this community has active cultural associations.  There’s a Chinatown too at Port Louis, further enriching the dimension of Mauritius real estate available to Chinese property buyers.

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