Panel on the Role of Artificial Intelligence in the Blue Economy of Mauritius

On Tuesday 17 June 2025, I had the privilege of participating in a panel discussion on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in our Blue Economy. This panel took place during the National Workshop on Artificial Intelligence for the Socio-Economic Development of Mauritius, organised by the University of Technology, Mauritius (UTM), in celebration of its 25th anniversary.

For Mauritius, the Blue Economy is far more than a concept. It is a national imperative. With limited land-based resources and increasing vulnerability to climate change, the ocean offers an avenue to diversify the economy, generate resilient jobs and assert maritime sovereignty. I emphasised that Mauritius needs to sustainably use ocean and coastal resources to further drive its economic growth and improve livelihoods while preserving fragile marine ecosystems.

During the discussion, I highlighted that the upcoming Assise de l’Océan would be a turning point for Mauritius to define clear priorities and explore how AI can enhance key sectors such as sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, marine renewable energy, sustainable ocean tourism, efficient maritime logistics, innovative research and capacity building while leveraging blue finance mechanisms.

Artificial Intelligence can be a powerful enabler: from monitoring our 2.3 million km² Exclusive Economic Zone, to fish catch analytics, smart port scheduling, site selection for marine renewable energy and the modelling of ocean systems. Yet, fundamental questions persists. Is our workforce ready? Are Mauritians prepared to seize emerging jobs in the Blue Economy? Are our educational institutions equipped for this challenge? And are we, as a nation, truly committed to setting and acting on clear, strategic priorities?

I extend my thanks to the University of Technology for the invitation, and to moderator Sanjeev Bokhoree, and fellow panelists Vinesh Emrith, Vivekanand Bhantoo, Sharveen Persand and Roshan Koonja for a rich and insightful exchange. Special appreciation goes to the organisers Kesseven Padachi, Sandhya Armoogum, and Kumar Dookhitram for making the event a success.