The political crisis in Madagascar in September 2025 has had consequences for the tourism sector. This instability triggered a wave of booking cancellations, reaching up to 80% in the last quarter of 2025, resulting in estimated economic losses of over USD 100 million for the tourism value chain.

Impact on Tourism Figures and Employment

Before this crisis, Madagascar was experiencing a gradual increase in tourists, even exceeding pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels, with approximately 248,140 visitors recorded during the first nine months of 2025. The crisis halted this positive momentum, as many tourists canceled their trips, constraints exacerbated by official travel advisories restricting travel to the Big Island.

This decline also directly affects tourism-related jobs. Before the crisis, the sector generated approximately 350,000 direct and indirect jobs, but the political crisis is jeopardizing thousands of jobs, weakening families and local economies.

Economic and Social Consequences

In addition to the tourism sector, looting and unrest have caused significant material and financial damage, with losses for more than 94 affected businesses. The Analamanga region has suffered the most severe economic damage, with nearly USD 40 million in losses and more than 1,900 jobs at risk.

This instability compromises visitor safety and investor confidence, hindering medium-term tourism and economic development projects. The sector is at a turning point, requiring a swift response from the authorities to restore safety and attractiveness and support economic recovery.

Perspectives and Calls to Action

Faced with this crisis, the Madagascar Tourism Confederation is calling for urgent measures to support the sector, including:

• Financial support
• Air connectivity
• Strengthened international promotion
• Securing tourist areas

Madagascar aims to become a global tourist destination by 2028, but political stability is now essential to achieving this goal. A sustainable tourism recovery must also focus on training local stakeholders and innovation in tourism offerings, while involving young people in this rebuilding process.

Recovery Strategies to Reassure International Tourists

To reassure international tourists and revive the tourism sector in Madagascar, several key strategies must be implemented quickly:

The proactive promotion of Madagascar as a safe destination must be strengthened through targeted digital campaigns, particularly on social media and with travel influencers.

Providing financial and technical support to local tourism stakeholders (accommodation providers, guides, agencies) so they can adapt their offerings to meet new tourist expectations, such as safe routes and sustainable experiences.

Finally, establishing a quality and safety tourism label could reassure visitors about the standards applied locally, strengthening the confidence of international tourists.