Rich in natural resources, Madagascar has experienced sustained growth in recent years as a result of public and private investment, the development of the manufacturing industry, the upswing in agriculture - which accounts for ⅓ of GDP and employs 80% of the workforce - as well as the resumption of mining.

Source : Country profile Business France

Good to know

Languages spoken: Malagasy, French
Local currency: Ariary
Capital: Tananarive

The conditions for undertaking a Business France V.I.E assignment in Madagascar

Do you meet the eligibility criteria for the V.I.E program and think you have the right profile?

Then take a look at the assignment conditions imposed by this country:

The conditions for undertaking a Business France V.I.A assignment in Madagascar

To go to Madagascar as a V.I.A young talent, you must fulfil the access conditions to the V.I.A program.
The administration that is recruiting you is responsible for your residence permit. 

Still have questions? Feel free to contact us.  

The cultural work codes in Madagascar

In Madagascar, whether in the professional or private sphere, physical proximity is the order of the day. So don’t be too surprised if a Malagasy touches you! It is normal for people of the same sex to touch each other's arms or shoulders while talking. As a result, embrace this proximity, even if you usually prefer a certain distance between yourself and others. It is very simple - taking a step backwards when faced with Malagasy conviviality will be perceived as an affront by the locals ! 

While the languages of business are mainly Malagasy and French, English is generally well understood in the professional context. As regards the attitude to time, you will soon realise that it varies depending on what part of the country you find yourself in. In the capital, the inhabitants are generally rather punctual but outside of Tananarive, it is a completely different story ! People live one day at a time, even if it means forgetting what time it is. In terms of dress style, without being overly formal, remain classic and plain - we can therefore forget about jeans, shorts and flip flops !

Malagasy people are generally very direct in how they communicate. They do not beat about the bush, especially when it comes to doing business.

Another important point: In Malagasy culture, negotiating comes naturally. Both in the context of a large contract and in everyday life, remember that the price given by your Malagasy contact is almost always inflated compared to the normal price. So feel free to negotiate downwards! The preferred way for ensuring strong and lasting relationships is meetings and face-to-face contacts.

Finally, keep in mind that small things count - although gifts are not common, wishing people Happy New Year or spontaneously asking how they are will be appreciated by your contacts.

Things that may surprise you in Madagascar

- Red island, large island, island-continent... there is no shortage of evocative nicknames to describe Madagascar and its vast spaces. It offers you a complete change of scenery and an unforgettable trip ! Fauna and flora are very rich and, for some species, completely unique to the island - we are of course thinking of the lemur, Madagascar's iconic animal. But there are also turtles, chameleons, crocodiles, multi-coloured frogs and birds of all kinds. Although there may not many cultural activities in Madagascar - i.e. there are few museums, major exhibitions or major bookshops - nature guarantees you plenty of strong emotions !

- And good news if you are a gourmet - this richness is reflected in Malagasy gastronomy, which is extremely varied. Local specialities consist of fish, meat - pork but also, more atypical, zebu - and a large quantity of fresh and exotic fruits and vegetables. In addition, fishery and agricultural products are generally very cheap !

- In terms of weather, you can’t complain. Temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C. Forget about harsh winters and snow, when living in Madagascar there are only two seasons. The dry season runs from April to around November while the wet season runs from December to March. Paradise ? Beware nevertheless of cyclones that can occur in winter in the north and south of Madagascar.

- Malagasys are friendly and warm ! Their hospitality is legendary but it can be a little complicated, as a foreigner, to create deep ties with them. Although the island may be rich in raw materials and natural resources, you will quickly realize that the country remains poor. This difference in standards of living can create a certain unease - even guilt - on your side and relationships that are highly motivated by money for the local people. Remember that these differences are entirely normal given the situation of the country and your status as a vasaha (foreigner).