1.5 billion international tourist arrivals were recorded in 2019, globally. A 4% increase on the previous year which is also forecast for 2020, confirming tourism as a leading and resilient economic sector, especially in view of current uncertainties. All regions saw a rise in international arrivals in 2019. However, uncertainty surrounding Brexit, the collapse of Thomas Cook, geopolitical and social tensions and the global economic slowdown all contributed to a slower growth in 2019, when compared to the exceptional rates of 2017 and 2018. This slowdown affected mainly advanced economies and particularly Europe and Asia and the Pacific. (UNWTO World Tourism Barometer)
Throwback to 2001, following the 9/11 where the world travel map changed due to significant reasons. Some countries had to restructure as a destination while others have had to provide assurances. As at 2020, we are currently lined up where;
- USA is about to declare 720 thousand people unemployed, since the last 2010 crisis.
- India is one of the leading powerhouse in regards to intellectual capacity, for when a surge as a manufacturing economy for a substitute to China.
- Is the pharmaceutical industry resilient enough regarding research and development.
- Is the current world population more fragile due to a constantly hectic lifestyle promoting multiple red flags.
Following the stand of United Nations, European Union and International Monetary fund beyond World War One, how significant would the G20 countries be compared to the production and resource possibilities of Latin America and Africa as possible hub for the next decade.
We are bounded by the surrounding environment, multiple functionalities have been rendered void. Burgeoning upper middle income economies namely Mauritius rely mostly on agreements and relationships shared with leading economies. Are we signaled to move towards being an entrepreneurial country. Unemployment rate is expected to increase, would it signify the instance for our young generation to be on the platform into shaping our country while avoiding the much anticipated crash.
Households are expected to curb their expenditure with a meager possibility of developing home based agriculture. In anticipation of the Africa food crisis, Mauritius could trigger the switch to self sufficient agricultural practices.
Resting on recent budgetary measures, the blue ocean economy could be the shock absorbing sector. Our marine zone, marine routes and port if managed wisely should be the good clock tweaked at the right time.
The aftermath of the Indian Ocean Island Games gave Mauritius multiple sports facilities and institutions. The return on investment is likely to be below par, the costs incurred in regards to benefits reaped should be assessed and direct the population into accessibility towards sports events.
Soovan Sharma Dookhoo
Soovan Sharma Dookhoo 