Madam Speaker, the Ministry of Finance launched the consultation process for the 2026-2027 Budget early in the year, that is, from February of this year. First, on 24 February 2026, the Ministry of Finance issued a communiqué inviting all stakeholders and the public at large to submit their proposals in the context of the Budget preparation exercise. Stakeholders were informed that the Budget would focus on boosting GDP growth potential, raising productivity and competitiveness, creating quality jobs, improving living standards for all Mauritians, while strengthening climate resilience and restoring sound public finances. On 27 February 2026, the Ministry of Finance issued the Budget Circular to Ministries and Departments requesting them to submit their Budget proposals. Ministries and Departments were informed that Government would give priority to spending that delivers the greatest development impacts, while minimising pressures on public finances. However, Madam Speaker, the day after we issued the Circular, the war in the Middle East started, increasing global economic uncertainty and causing major disruptions in the supply chains, especially of energy, food, and fertiliser. Since then, for example, the price of crude oil has been surging, reaching a peak of 126 US dollars per barrel. This is having a negative impact on both growth and inflation worldwide. The situation is adding significantly to an already tight budgeting exercise. It calls for building greater resilience to such external shocks while pursuing our efforts to consolidate public finances. Consequently, the Ministry of Finance has asked the various Ministries and Departments to factor in these developments in the formulation of their budget proposals. I am informed, Madam Speaker, that in the course of preparing the submissions, Ministries and Departments have also engaged with relevant stakeholders at their respective levels along the same lines. The Ministry of Finance has had an extensive discussion with Ministries and Departments on the budget proposals through various Estimates Committee meetings, emphasising the difficult situation we are in. Third, Madam Speaker, the Ministry of Finance has had meetings with different stakeholders across key sectors of the economy and society. These include – (a) business, trade, women and environment associations; (b) professional bodies; (c) trade unions; (d) artists and youth groups; (e) civil society organisations; (f) planters; (g) livestock breeders; (h) fishermen; (i) academia, and (j) SMEs and private sector representatives. Fourth, the Ministry of Finance is currently conducting Policy Dialogue meetings with all Ministries. More specifically, discussions are being held with the relevant ministers and their senior staffs on key policy reforms within their respective ministries. The Policy Dialogue meetings will continue over the coming days to allow for further engagement and constructive exchanges ahead of the finalisation of the Budget. Madam Speaker, one can appreciate the considerable efforts being deployed by all stakeholders, Ministers and Departments, as well as the Ministry of Finance through this consultation process. I would, therefore, like to express my sincere appreciation to all those who have contributed their time, expertise and valuable inputs towards the preparation of the Budget. I would also like to reassure all stakeholders that the proposals and recommendations submitted are being carefully and thoroughly examined and will be taken into account when we formulate the budget.

Yes. You are alright? Next question. Hon. First member for Port Louis Maritime and Port Louis East. MRA – VALUE ADDED TAX – REVENUE COLLECTED (JULY 2025-APRIL 2026)