Madagascar Expands Its Pool of Vanilla and Clove Exporters to Strengthen Key Sectors

Madagascar’s Ministry of Trade and Consumption has reinforced oversight of its strategic export sectors by approving 19 new exporters of cash crops, mainly vanilla and cloves, as part of the 2025–2026 campaign. This move aims to better organize a sector that is crucial for the country’s foreign currency earnings while ensuring the quality of exports on international markets.

In detail, 18 new companies have been authorized to export vanilla after the review of 25 applications, representing an approval rate of 72%. In addition, one company has been granted authorization to export cloves, bringing the total number of newly approved operators to 19. These companies will be able to officially begin their export activities once they collect their certificates, scheduled from April 13.

This controlled expansion is part of a broader strategy to structure the market. The ministry seeks to streamline export channels by including only operators that meet regulatory requirements, particularly in terms of traceability, quality standards, and tax compliance. The dual objective is to enhance the credibility of Malagasy products abroad and to secure trade flows.

Authorities have indicated that these new exporters will be subject to strict monitoring. Regular inspections will be carried out to ensure compliance with existing regulations. In case of violations, a range of graduated sanctions is предусмотрено, from technical support measures to the withdrawal of export licenses. This oversight is intended to protect the international reputation of Malagasy vanilla and cloves, two flagship products of the country’s external trade.

This development comes as Madagascar seeks to stabilize and optimize its agricultural exports. By increasing the number of operators while strengthening regulatory controls, the government is attempting to balance economic openness with effective governance, ensuring the sustainability and competitiveness of its export sectors.