Economy and Trade at the Heart of the Exchange

Opportunities in the mining, textile, agribusiness, tourism, ICT, renewable energy, infrastructure, and light manufacturing sectors took center stage at the launch of “CHOOSE MADAGASCAR: Investment Opportunities” in Washington.

Led by Ambassador Solo Andry Lantosoa Rakotomalala, the Embassy of Madagascar brought together a large audience: officials from the U.S. National Security Council, the State Department, members of the diplomatic corps, and leaders of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the National Black Chamber of Commerce. CEOs, investors, and Friends of Madagascar also participated in the event.

Three government figures spoke on behalf of Madagascar: David Ralambofiringa, Minister of Industrialization and Trade; Olivier Rakotomalala, Minister of Mines; and Lainkana Zafivanona Ernest, Director General of Customs. They all presented the General State Policy defined by the President of Madagascar, organized around three pillars: human capital development, industrialization, and governance.

At the same time, an official mission is taking place in Washington to advocate for the extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which expires on September 30, 2025. The Malagasy delegation brings together government officials and business groups, particularly in the textile and vanilla sectors.

On September 8, a coordination meeting at the Embassy of Madagascar brought together the Malagasy delegation, representatives from Lesotho, Kenya, Tanzania, and Mauritius, as well as the Kenyan private sector. Together, they addressed a joint plea to American decision-makers to extend AGOA, an important mechanism for African exports and vital for Malagasy textiles.