Biolabex's Mauritius R&D lab open for business
The 500 sqm facility houses capacity for analytical and manufacturing services, formulation development and regulatory consulting to the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical and cosmetics sectors.
Mauritius-headquartered Biolabex describes the facility as one of its two strategic locations, with the other being its office in Paris.
CEO Marc Labiche suggested that Mauritius site would help the firm attract clients interested in the Island nation’s biodiversity.
He told us "The Mascareignes archipelago and specifically Mauritius, close to Madagascar, is one of the famous biodiversity hotspots in the word, with a large amount of endemic plants. Therefore, Biolabex, a Mauritius-based services firm saw great potential in locating its first laboratory here."
Labiche added that "An international firm will find, with Biolabex, a unique successful combination: First, a rich source of natural active ingredients from locally grown crops, with sustainable development and fair trade.
"Secondly, a full spectrum of R&D and consulting services allowing a rational and scientific use of these local ingredients in developing new cosmetical and pharmaceutical products."
Trade talks
In 2013, the European Parliament backed plans for a trade partnership with East African nations.
The agreement – which is currently being negotiated - includes provisions to increase European firms’ access to markets in Madagascar, Mauritius, Seychelles and Zimbabwe, with pharmaceutical being among the products mentioned.
