India and Mauritania established diplomatic relations in 1964 when Mauritania was admitted to the United Nations and expanded international recognition. The relationship is characterised by development partnership through ITEC and the India-Africa Forum framework, bilateral trade anchored by iron ore exports from Mauritania and pharmaceutical exports from India, and emerging cooperation on fishing and maritime affairs. Mauritania's strategic position at the junction of the Sahel, the Maghreb, and the Atlantic has given it increasing relevance in India's Africa engagement.
COOPERATION AREAS
Where India and Mauritania actually work together
4 active areas of cooperation, as of July 2026. Click any card for the full brief.
TRADE & INVESTMENT
By the numbers
Approximate figures, FY 2023–24. Source: DGFT. Bilateral trade transits partly through Dakar and Dubai and may be under-counted. Iron ore flows to India are tracked through commodity markets.
$148mn
Total bilateral trade in goods
$118mn
India exports to country
$30mn
India imports from country
Trade trajectory · USD bn
$0.148bnin FY24 · click a bar to compare years
TOP TRADED ITEMS
AGREEMENTS & MILESTONES
The relationship since 1964, in 6 dates
CURRENT STATE
Where things stand, 2026
India-Mauritania relations are modest but gradually developing, anchored by pharmaceutical exports, iron ore trade, and ITEC cooperation. Mauritania's Atlantic strategic position, iron ore wealth, fisheries, and gas discoveries give the bilateral relationship growing potential. India's Sahel engagement and Africa strategy both encompass Mauritania as a stable partner in an unstable neighbourhood.
SIGNALS TO WATCH
On track / positive momentum
In progress / worth watching
Stalled or facing headwinds
Not yet started / unclear
QUICK FACTS
CapitalNouakchott
Population4.6 million
RegionAfrica
Diplomatic tiesSince 1964
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