(Image: 'Stairs in Antananarivo, Madagascar' By Bernard Gagnon. Licensed under CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons)

Market profile

Madagascar, despite being an island, is geologically attached to the African continent and holds a trove of natural resources. 

Agriculture is the main sector of the economy, contributing to over 25 per cent of the gross domestic product (GDP), but operations remain mostly manual. Among the world’s 20th largest producers of chromite, Madagascar has considerable mining riches such as precious stones and industrial minerals, including nickel, cobalt, ilmenite and uranium amongst others. 

The textile industry, formerly a strong component of the Malagasy economy, has attracted a large number of overseas investors. The island produces high quality cotton, raffia and silk textiles, the labour is highly skilled and available at competitive rates.

More information on doing business in Madagascar

Facts

  • Merchandise exports A$0.21 million
  • Services exports A$4 million
  • Capital Antananarivo
  • Official languages Malagasy, French
  • Area 581,795 sq km
  • Population 26.3 million

Information provided by DFAT

Trade and economic fact sheet

Containing general information, recent economic indicators, Australia’s trade and investment relationship with Madagascar and their global merchandise trade relationship that is updated twice a year.

» read more at DFAT

Smartraveller

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Smartraveller site provides advice for business travellers and tourists going to Madagascar. This is regularly updated and should be checked before planning travel.

» read more at DFAT

DFAT country page

Find information on embassies, country briefs, economic fact sheets, trade agreements, aid programs, sanctions and more.

» read more at DFAT

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