A New Step for Foreign Trade

The AfCFTA represents a vast economic area encompassing nearly 50 African countries and approximately 3 billion consumers.

For Madagascar, this free trade area represents a major opportunity to develop its exports and strengthen its presence in the African market.

With this in mind, a National Committee will soon be established. This committee will bring together the relevant ministries as well as representatives from the private sector. “The objective is to better coordinate actions and define a common strategy to conquer this continental market,” according to the Director General of Foreign Trade (DGCE), Tiava Rajohnson.

The results of studies and analyses related to the creation of this committee were presented at a meeting held at Le Pavé Antaninarenina. Several stakeholders participated in this meeting, including experts, public officials, and representatives from the private sector. The discussions led to a better understanding of the challenges and priorities related to the AfCFTA.

According to the Director General, this national committee will serve as a common working framework. “This structure will allow all stakeholders to collaborate in order to define effective strategies to strengthen Madagascar’s presence in the African market,” he stated.

One of the main advantages of the AfCFTA is that nearly 95% of traded goods are exempt from customs duties. This measure greatly facilitates trade between member countries and opens up new opportunities for exporters.

For Madagascar, several sectors are considered priorities. These include textiles and apparel, processed agricultural products, and digital services.