AMB Secures Potato, Onion and Garlic Supply Until End of 2026
Mauritius's Agricultural Marketing Board has confirmed stable stocks of three essential staples through December 2026, easing consumer concerns.
Mauritius's Agricultural Marketing Board, known by its French acronym AMB, has announced that supplies of potatoes, onions and garlic are secured through the end of December 2026. The confirmation comes as a reassurance to consumers and traders who rely on these three staples as everyday cooking essentials across the island.
The AMB is a state-run body under the Ministry of Agro-Industry that regulates the importation, storage and distribution of essential food commodities in Mauritius. Because the island imports the vast majority of its potatoes, onions and garlic, any disruption to global supply chains or shipping routes can quickly translate into shortages or price spikes at local markets and supermarkets.
By confirming supply arrangements through December 2026, the AMB is signalling that procurement contracts and import logistics are already in place for the coming months. This kind of forward planning is particularly important for Mauritius given its vulnerability to external shocks, including adverse weather in major supplying countries, shipping delays and currency fluctuations that affect import costs.
Potatoes, onions and garlic are among the most widely consumed ingredients in Mauritian households, used across Creole, Indian, Chinese and European-influenced cooking traditions. Price increases or shortages of these items have historically caused public frustration and drawn political attention, making stable supply a matter of both economic and social importance.
The AMB regularly monitors stock levels and coordinates with importers to maintain buffer stocks. In past years, events such as droughts in South Africa, one of Mauritius's key suppliers, or disruptions at Port Louis harbour have exposed the fragility of the supply chain for fresh produce.
What this means: For everyday shoppers, this announcement suggests that prices for these three staples should remain relatively stable and that shelves should stay stocked through the end of the year. Retailers and caterers in the hotel and restaurant sector can also plan ahead with greater confidence. However, actual prices at market level will still depend on global commodity costs, freight rates and local distribution margins, so the AMB's supply guarantee does not necessarily mean prices will stay unchanged, only that the goods will be available.
No specific figures on stock volumes, import origins or pricing were included in the original announcement. The AMB has not indicated any exceptional measures are being taken, suggesting this is part of its routine forward procurement process.
Source: Le Defi Media
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the AMB in Mauritius and what does it do?β
The AMB, or Agricultural Marketing Board, is a Mauritian government body operating under the Ministry of Agro-Industry. It manages the importation, storage and distribution of essential food commodities such as potatoes, onions, garlic and other staples to ensure stable supply and prevent shortages across the island.
Where does Mauritius import its potatoes, onions and garlic from?β
Mauritius imports potatoes, onions and garlic from several countries. South Africa is one of the key suppliers, along with other regional and international sources. Because Mauritius produces very little of these crops locally, it depends heavily on smooth international supply chains and shipping through Port Louis harbour.
Will prices for potatoes, onions and garlic drop following the AMB announcement?β
The AMB's announcement guarantees availability of stock through December 2026 but does not set or fix retail prices. Prices at markets and supermarkets in Mauritius are still influenced by global commodity rates, shipping costs and local distribution margins, so consumers may not necessarily see lower prices as a result.
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