The Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) serves as an important platform for enhancing economic collaboration among its member states, including Mauritius, as a founder member in March 1995, which is centrally located within this vibrant maritime region. Established in 1997, IORA fosters cooperation in key areas such as maritime security, trade facilitation, sustainable development, and scientific research. With a collective aim of improving regional maritime security and promoting economic growth, Mauritius plays a crucial role in facilitating cooperation among IORA members. Given the Indian Ocean’s strategic significance for global trade, fisheries, and environmental sustainability, it is imperative to strengthen partnerships through maritime collaboration to effectively tackle regional challenges and seize emerging opportunities.
The Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) includes a diverse array of nations, namely 23 member states such as Australia, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates, Bangladesh, Oman, Yemen, and Comoros as well as 12 dialogue partners including the European Union, China, the United States and Japan.
Initiatives within IORA
A key element of maritime collaboration within IORA is the enhancement of maritime security. Mauritius, due to its strategic position, has taken an active role in regional maritime security efforts, including participation in joint exercises such as the “Indian Ocean Naval Symposium” (IONS) held in 2018. This partnership has allowed Mauritius and other member nations to reinforce their maritime domain awareness, thereby safeguarding the shipping routes that are crucial for international trade.
Furthermore, IORA’s commitment to sustainable development presents Mauritius with an opportunity to spearhead initiatives aimed at safeguarding and responsibly utilising marine resources. The Indian Ocean boasts a wealth of biodiversity, supporting essential ecosystems that are crucial for both fisheries and tourism. In 2017, Mauritius played a key role in co-hosting the IORA Workshop on Sustainable Fisheries held in Zanzibar where member states exchanged best practices related to sustainable fishing and the management of marine resources. Through collaboration on these initiatives, Mauritius and its IORA partners are capable of effectively aligning their efforts with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 14, which is dedicated to the conservation of oceans, seas, and marine resources.
Economic collaboration via maritime trade represents a vital opportunity for Mauritius to enhance its partnerships within the IORA. The Indian Ocean region is a crucial link for maritime commerce, bridging Europe, Africa, and Asia. Mauritius has established itself as a key trading centre, and initiatives like the “IORA Business Forum”, initiated in 2016, have allowed member states to identify collaborative opportunities in trade and investment. For example, in 2020, Mauritius played a pivotal role in discussions aimed at improving intra-regional trade, focusing on maritime trade routes and logistics that connect IORA member countries. These efforts not only strengthen economic relationships but also improve resilience to global economic challenges, as highlighted by the experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a similar perspective, capacity-building plays a crucial role in fostering maritime cooperation within the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA). Mauritius has the opportunity to work alongside member states to improve their maritime capabilities through various initiatives such as training programmes, knowledge sharing, and technical support. There is an ongoing need to ascertain the maritime sovereignty and territorial integrity of the island nation. This collaborative effort not only empowers local communities to adopt sustainable maritime practices but also nurtures a new generation of maritime professionals who are prepared to address current challenges while promoting sustainable regional development.
IORA and the Blue Economy
The Blue Economy, designated as a “Focus Area” by the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), emphasises the responsible exploitation and sustainable utilisation of ocean resources to drive economic growth, create jobs, and enhance livelihoods, all while safeguarding marine ecosystems. This concept gained importance during the 14th IORA Ministerial Meeting in 2014, where member states recognised its potential to foster employment, ensure food security, and alleviate poverty, benefiting both large and small economies. Countries like Australia and India have played a crucial role in advancing this initiative, presenting clear strategies for the responsible management of marine resources.
Collaborative initiatives have resulted in significant progress, such as the development of eco-tourism platforms that boost local economies and promote sustainable practices. A notable achievement has been the formation of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission, which is essential for regulating fishing activities to maintain sustainability in the region. Furthermore, member states have prioritised research and development of marine and bio-resources for medicinal applications, opening new avenues in healthcare while protecting marine biodiversity. Investments in the Blue Economy have also catalysed growth across various sectors. IORA’s dedication to the Blue Economy illustrates a shared commitment to harnessing ocean resources while maintaining ecological integrity, ultimately supporting resilient economies and sustainable development throughout the Indian Ocean region.
The potential for collaboration within IORA is substantial and can be further cultivated through strategic partnerships. The association could prioritise joint initiatives that cater to the interests of both developed and developing nations. Collaborative efforts focused on climate resilience, sustainable fisheries, and maritime safety could effectively tackle shared challenges faced by member states, particularly those at risk from climate change. Wealthier countries can foster these initiatives by offering resources, technology, and expertise while ensuring that Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and emerging nations play a vital role in both the planning and execution stages.
Achieving Economic Synergy within IORA
From an economic point of view, the trade and investment potential of the IORA region is huge. With a population of more than 2 billion people, the combined IORA Members States Gross Domestic Product amounts to around $9 trillion. IORA accounts for about 11% of world trade emphasising the substantial economic opportunities that arise from collaboration within this diverse assembly. The Indian Ocean facilitates over 80% of the world’s oil trade and is a pathway for approximately 70% of international trade, underlining the necessity for cooperative initiatives that strengthen maritime security, promote infrastructural advancement, and ensure the sustainable utilisation of marine resources.
Conclusion
Mauritius plays a pivotal role in the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), promoting regional cooperation, economic growth, and maritime security. As the IORA Secretariat’s host nation, it continues to drive dialogue and collaboration among member states. Furthermore, Mauritius actively promotes discussions on enhancing maritime trade routes and logistics, creating opportunities for economic synergy across the region.
