In 2020, the global market for 3D printing products and services was estimated to be worth USD 12.6 billion, hence the 3D printing technologies are getting more attention from the trade policy community.
International Economics Consulting provided technical assistance to the MRIC to investigate the potential of developing the 3D filament printing industry in Mauritius.
The 3D printing industry has witnessed tremendous growth globally with its applications and use-cases across various industries. Many huge projects have been initiated in Africa to take advantage of 3D printing technology, in Malawi and Kenya, a project called 14trees was launched aimed at 3D-printing houses and schools in a quarter of the time it would typically take. Despite being in an early stage of development, 3D printing technology is also being gradually adopted in Mauritius.
Understanding the state of 3D printing technology in Mauritius is key to developing a strong industry in the country. Mauritius Research and Innovation Council (MRIC) has commission this study in order to evaluate the potential of developing a 3D filament printing industry in Mauritius and the region.
Our consortium partners identified the type of filament grades that can be produced through supply chain analysis, and our Team helped to evaluate the potential of developing the 3D printing industry in Mauritius and the region through market study, export potential analysis, policies, and regulations review, and cost-benefit analysis.
3DP is an emerging industry in Mauritius with a few enterprises adopting it for prototyping. Micro-companies, small businesses, and enthusiasts are the primary users of 3D printing technology in Mauritius. The government have taken several initiatives to increase the awareness and adoption of 3DP in the past 5 years, however, the majority of the public is still unaware of this technology and the benefits it proffers.
Our study investigated the state of the 3DP landscape in Mauritius, its export potential, and the cost-benefit analysis for establishing operations from Mauritius, as well as investigates the appropriateness of policies and regulations to support the industry. Although, a national strategic plan is necessary to keep pace with the rapid global advancement in the industry, our estimates suggest that Mauritius can potentially produce 3D printed products and export them to high potential markets.
Some of the recommendations for the establishment of a robust 3DP filament industry in Mauritius include forming a committee to spearhead the initiative and growth of the 3DP industry, improve awareness of 3DP technology, and establishing training centres with professional certification.
As businesses seek to expand operations into new markets, the need to explore global supply chains and understand the international regulatory framework becomes crucial. At International Economics Consulting, we build tailor-made strategies for both import and export-oriented business solutions.
