What Does a Company Secretary Do in Mauritius? Key Responsibilities Explained.

In Mauritius, a Company Secretary does more than manage paperwork. They help steer the company safely through regulation, compliance, and governance.

The word ‘secretary’ may lead one to think that the role of a Company Secretary stops at clerical duties, or administrative tasks. On the contrary, a Company Secretary stands, in many ways, as the backbone of a company.

While filing and record-keeping remain essential, a Company Secretary plays a key role in all aspects of a business.

Legal Mandate

As per Sections 163-165 of the Mauritius Companies Act 2001, a Company Secretary may be either an individual or a firm that has consented to the appointment and confirmed they meet the necessary qualifications. For most companies (except small private companies meeting exemption criteria), it is a legal requirement to have a secretary. The application is submitted to and approved by the Registrar of Companies.

Behind the Boardroom Doors

Board meetings become far easier with a Company Secretary. Not only do they ensure that the minutes of meetings of shareholders or directors are properly recorded as per the requirements of the Companies Act 2001, but they also prepare meeting agendas, meeting documents and share notices of meetings. Company Secretaries ascertain meetings are conducted as per legal requirements and best practices.

The Compliance Custodian

Acting as the go-to compliance expert, the Company Secretary ensures that annual returns are filed accurately, registers are well-maintained, and board resolutions are carefully crafted. They also offer thoughtful advice on the real-world consequences of non-compliance—like fines or even corporate strike-off—helping the Board navigate these challenges with confidence. Overall, they play a key role in ensuring that everything runs smoothly and that the company stays on the right side of the law!

A Bridge between Business and Regulation

The Company Secretary bridges the gap and facilitates the relationship between the company and its regulators, such as the Registrar of Companies and the Mauritius Revenue Authority. With proper Due Diligence, thorough screenings and strict AML/CFT procedures, a Company Secretary is the first line of defence for regulators.

What’s at Stake for Mauritian Businesses

In today’s tightly regulated financial landscape, having a Company Secretary is a must.

Not only do they handle paperwork but also act as a cornerstone of accountability and corporate governance. Their know-how is crucial for staying compliant with legal standards and building trust with stakeholders. Many businesses in Mauritius are opting to outsource their corporate secretarial services as it helps them simplify their operations and tap into specialized expertise, letting them concentrate on what they do best while staying on top of all the necessary regulations.

Admittedly, company secretaries are often overlooked. They are a quiet but essential force in every well-run company.

They are truly partners in your long-term success.