The economy of the island is based upon agriculture, industry, trade and services. It is very much an export oriented economy due to the relatively small size of the local market and the lack of natural resources. The main exports are sugar and wearing apparel. Tourism is a major contributor to the local economy.

For the most part of its history, Mauritius has been a poor island. It is only for the past fifteen years or so that the majority of the inhabitants has known some degree of economic well being.