The official opening of the Manandratra Economic Fair took place yesterday in Ambatondrazaka. Regions are called upon to carry development projects that meet local needs, with support from the State and technical and financial partners. This approach was defended yesterday by Minister Dr Herinjatovo Aimé Ramiarison at the Manandratra Fair in Ambatondrazaka. The potential is immense, but the challenge remains significant. For three days, the capital of Alaotra-Mangoro becomes a showcase for the region's resources and expertise. The first edition of the Manandratra Fair aims to go beyond simple product exhibition to promote business meetings, structure supply chains, and open outlets for local enterprises. With nearly 18,000 economic operators spread across its five districts, the region has considerable productive capacity. The objective is now to transform the "granary of Madagascar" into a territory that not only produces but increasingly transforms its resources, develops enterprises, and sustainably creates jobs. According to Alaotra-Mangoro Regional Chief Elire Joseph Rabemananjara, rice cultivation represents 90% of the region's productive economy, while only 35% of arable land benefits from functional irrigation infrastructure. The rest remains dependent on rainfall and exposed to droughts and floods. He regretted that the restructuring of the Rice Plus project reduced funding for infrastructure, which remains a priority for Alaotra-Mangoro. The region is nevertheless continuing construction of 20 hydroagricultural dams this year, thanks to royalties paid by the Ambatovy project. For the Minister of Economy and Finance, Dr Herinjatovo Aimé Ramiarison, recovery must also involve more operational decentralization. Regions are called upon to propose projects adapted to community needs, capable of being supported by technical and financial partners. This approach would, according to him, accelerate procedures, reduce costs, and improve investment efficiency. "We are ready to support the Regions in this framework. This will also allow sectoral ministries and the central State, in general, to focus on strategic aspects," he declared during a meeting organized with local authorities, on the sidelines of the Manandratra Economic Fair. The minister nevertheless insisted on the absorption capacity of local authorities, which must strengthen themselves and, if necessary, resort to appropriate expertise. He also advocated for improved agricultural yields, increased farmer incomes, and concrete solutions against costs linked to isolation. Cooperatives are among the levers being considered to reduce input costs and facilitate access to essential goods.