ENL launches its new tea venture in Mauritius on 500 arpents

This 19 March 2025, ENL Group officially launched its new tea cultivation venture in Valetta, near Moka. This significant investment in the Mauritian tea industry marks a new chapter for the local sector. During a symbolic ceremony, Dr the Hon Arvin Boolell, GOSK. Minister of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries, planted tea saplings, signaling the kickoff of this ambitious initiative. Over the next five years, ENL’s tea plantations will gradually expand across 500 arpents in Valetta, in the Moka region.

ENL Group takes a significant step forward in its commitment to sustainable agriculture with the launch of its own tea production.

"It is a whole part of Mauritian history that is revalorised today, with our tea plantation, not just as a tribute to our heritage, but also as a showcase of modern agricultural ingenuity," said Gilbert Espitalier-Noël, CEO of ENL Group, during the ceremony in Valetta.

With an investment of 160 million rupees over six years, this project aligns with ENL’s strategy to strengthen agricultural resilience, diversify local crops, and reduce dependence on tea imports, which currently account for nearly 30% of the tea consumed in Mauritius.

ENL AND AGRICULTURE: A SUSTAINABLE VISION

With deep historical roots in the agricultural sector, ENL continues to promote innovative farming practices. Sustainable agriculture and the enhancement of Mauritian terroirs are central to its strategy, with ongoing investments in environmentally responsible practices.

Through tea cultivation, the group diversifies its agricultural portfolio. This initiative leverages the group’s experience and partnerships with international experts to ensure high-quality production under optimal conditions.

ENL's ambition is to elevate Mauritian tea production by introducing new tea varieties that are better suited to local conditions and offer higher yields. The goal is to produce sufficient tea leaves to supply bulk processors locally. Currently, nearly 30% of the tea consumed in Mauritius is imported, mainly from Kenya, and blended with local tea before being sold in supermarkets or under various brands. This initiative will help reduce dependence on imports while fostering a stronger, more competitive tea industry.

LAUNCH OF ENL'S NEW TEA BUSINESS

ENL Agri, the group's agricultural division, is leading this new venture, leveraging its expertise in sustainable agriculture. The production unit will integrate modern techniques with traditional know-how to produce tea through mechanisation, precision agriculture, and knowledge transfer.

This project follows an integrated development approach, promoting Mauritian production that enhances local terroir and expertise.

The ENL tea project is based on a modern and responsible approach, including:

• 500 arpents dedicated to tea cultivation in the highlands of Mauritius.
• Three cyclone-resistant tea cultivars imported from Kenya.
• Cultivation adapted to the island’s climatic conditions, using naturally acidic soils without irrigation or amendments.
• A partnership with experts from the Kenyan Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation for knowledge transfer.
• Advanced mechanisation to optimise harvesting and reduce costs.
• A processing partner located near Valetta, promoting short supply chains and reducing fuel consumption.
• A project that has been in development for several years, with an initial phase already underway, including the importation of 600,000 cuttings from Kenya, some of which will be transplanted across 62 arpents by the end of 2025.

WHY VALETTA?

"The decision to plant tea in the highlands of Valetta is no coincidence," says Olivier Baissac, CEO of ENL Agri. He explains that Valetta's soils are ideal for tea cultivation, as their natural acidity provides optimal growing conditions without requiring artificial amendments. He adds:

We chose to establish this crop on land where sugarcane yields are modest, while tea thrives, optimising profitability. This project also transforms underutilised areas into high-value crops. Additionally, our climate is a key ally: the humidity and temperatures of the highlands naturally support tea plants, contributing to water conservation and ensuring quality production.

The development of this cultivation aligns with ENL’s agricultural diversification strategy and reflects strong encouragement from the Mauritian government in this sector.

PARTNERSHIP WITH SMALL FARMERS

ENL is also collaborating with the local farming community through a programme that includes:

• Technical training on modern tea cultivation methods.
• Supply of new tea cultivars.
• Support for plot development for mechanical harvesting.
• Offering mechanical harvesting services.

This partnership aims to create a sustainable ecosystem around tea cultivation, benefiting both ENL and independent small-scale farmers.

This tea plantation project marks a new milestone in our agricultural diversification strategy and the enhancement of our agricultural lands. It is also designed to support and integrate small farmers into this venture. Through this collaboration, ENL will play a pivotal role as a facilitator for small farmers and the tea industry, 

says Olivier Baissac, CEO of ENL Agri.

A COMMITMENT TO THE FUTURE OF AGRICULTURE

With 9% of its land earmarked for development over the next 15 years, ENL continues its strategy of enhancing land value through integrated and harmonious development. This is evident in the group’s achievements in Moka, Bel Ombre, and Savannah, where innovation and sustainability take centre stage for the benefit of communities and territories.

"We will remain farmers for a very long time. But we will be 21st-century farmers, combining tradition and innovation, respecting the land while maximising its potential, blending local heritage with international expertise." — Gilbert Espitalier-Noël, CEO of ENL Group.