The Groupement des Entreprises Franches et Partenaires (GEFP) is calling on the State and the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Nearly 200,000 direct jobs and the livelihoods of thousands of families are at risk due to chronic fiscal instability affecting their sector. "Since 2023, new taxes, charges and fiscal obligations have been introduced and modified through finance laws as part of commitments made with the IMF. At the same time, VAT refunds are falling far behind and companies no longer know what rules they will have to work under tomorrow," it stated. Unpredictability "In 2008, the State adopted law no. 2007-037 to provide free zone enterprises with clear and above all stable fiscal rules. This guarantee encouraged investors to set up factories, develop activities and create jobs in Madagascar. Today, this law has not been repealed, but year after year, general finance laws gradually add new charges without regard for the foundations of the free zone law," according to its statement. This unpredictability sends a damaging signal to investors, unable to plan their activities from one year to the next. Clear Position However, GEFP is not asking for privileges, but accepts controls, fighting abuse and cleaning up the sector. Facing this danger, it urgently demands a clear position from the State, immediate consultation before any new tax is applied, respect for the law governing the free zone and the establishment of a credible VAT refund repayment schedule. An independent impact study, with analysis of the costs and benefits of the free zone regime, is also necessary before any irreversible decision, it concluded.