Mauritius offshore resource exploration and maritime rights

Mauritius has initiated steps toward offshore energy and resource exploration in the Indian Ocean. The government, in partnership with the Seychelles, approved a deal with the French company Viridien to conduct seismic surveys across a 396,000 km² joint continental shelf to map potential oil and gas reserves.

Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam stated that existing maritime security agreements with nations such as the United States, France, India, and South Africa do not contain clauses restricting the exploration or exploitation of natural resources within the nation's exclusive economic zone.

Following these exploration efforts, the United Nations Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf recognized Mauritius’ entitlement to an extended continental shelf of approximately 147,000 km² around Rodrigues Island. This recognition grants sovereign rights over seabed and subsoil resources, including minerals such as cobalt, zinc, and manganese, though officials noted that legal adaptations and environmental protections must be established before exploitation begins.