Madagascar is setting its sights on China. The island nation will participate in the China International Import Expo (CIIE), China's largest import-focused trade fair, taking place in Shanghai from November 6-10, 2026. Madagascar's Economic and Commercial Mission in China (MECC) announced last Friday the launch of a call for interest from companies wishing to take part in this strategic event.
Zero Tariffs
Conducted in partnership with the Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Madagascar (FCCIM), the Economic Development Board of Madagascar (EDBM), the China-Madagascar Chamber of Commerce (CCCM), the General Directorate of Foreign Trade, and sectoral ministries, the initiative aims to enable Malagasy exporters to penetrate the Chinese market, taking advantage of tariff benefits granted by China to several products from Madagascar, some of which now enjoy duty-free access. The Madagascar pavilion at CIIE will particularly showcase premium and niche products. Targeted sectors include agrobusiness, handicrafts, and other industries with potential for upgrading.
Beyond the presence of Malagasy companies at this international commercial showcase, the mission primarily aims to open new outlets for Madagascar's premium products and attract more Chinese investment.
B2B Meetings
The mission will not be limited to a trade fair presence. Malagasy companies will participate in three days of B2B meetings with Chinese economic operators. Two days will be specifically dedicated to exchanges with e-commerce actors, a channel that has become essential for accessing the Chinese market. "The objective is to establish commercial partnerships, identify distributors, and facilitate the introduction of Malagasy products on Chinese digital platforms," explained the MECC.
These meetings also aim to better understand Chinese market requirements regarding standards, packaging, certification, and marketing. Alongside FCCIM, EDBM will use this mission to present investment opportunities offered by Madagascar. Business climate reforms, business creation support measures, and priority sectors will be highlighted.
This initiative comes at an opportune time, given that the number of companies created with majority Chinese shareholders has increased in recent years, demonstrating growing interest from Chinese investors in Madagascar.
Support
For FCCIM, this participation represents an opportunity to help Malagasy companies diversify their export outlets. It is essentially about beginning to reverse the trend, as until now, the country's exports have remained heavily oriented toward Europe, while the trade balance remains in deficit. "Madagascar is now heading toward China," summarize the organizers, convinced that this market offers new perspectives for niche products with high added value.
Note that selected companies will receive support with participation procedures, eligibility criteria, and logistics organization. Participation fees may, depending on the terms agreed, be shared among participants.