Title:
COVID-19 and Mauritius’ tourism industry: an island perspective
Authors:
Verena Tandrayen-Ragoobur, University of Mauritius, Reduit, Mauritius
Neha Devi Tengur, National Social, Inclusion Foundation, Port Louis, Mauritius
&
Sheereen Fauzel, University of Mauritius, Reduit, Mauritius
Published:
Journal of Policy Research in Tourism, Leisure and Events, 28 January 2022
Abstract:
The outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic has brought a halt to the tourism industry. Mauritius, which is a dependent tourism economy, has been highly impacted. International travel restrictions have had significant effects on segments as diverse as air transport, cruises, accommodation houses, hotels, restaurants, travel agencies and other small and medium enterprises. The objective of the paper is to assess the impact of COVID-19 on firms’ performance, employment levels and recovery plans established by firms and the authorities. Using a sample of 100 small- and medium-sized firms in tourism across various regions of Mauritius, the study investigates the impact of COVID-19 on firm’s performance in terms of revenue, investments and employment levels. The effects of recovery measures, assistance schemes provided by the Government and adjustments undertaken by enterprises to boost their activities are probed into. Our results reveal an important negative effect of the pandemic on tourism demands and cash flows. The impact on employment though negative seems to have been cushioned partially by Government schemes.