The Malagasy government has taken a new step in its agricultural support policy by introducing a floor price for cotton, aiming to secure farmers’ incomes and revitalize a sector that has long faced difficulties. Authorities have set the minimum purchase price at 1,700 ariary per kilogram of cotton for the 2025-2026 season. The announcement was made in Toliara by Minister of Trade and Industrialization Gaëtan Ramindo during the official launch of the cotton campaign.
This measure comes at a time when agricultural price volatility continues to affect producers, leaving them with unstable and uncertain revenues. By guaranteeing a minimum purchase price, the government seeks to provide farmers with greater visibility, encourage investment in cotton cultivation, and prevent the gradual abandonment of farms. Cotton remains an important source of income for several rural areas in southern and western Madagascar.
The government also expects this mechanism to encourage the expansion of cultivated land and increase national production. According to officials, the sector is already showing signs of recovery after several difficult seasons. Cotton is now seen as a potential driver of rural development, job creation, and stronger economic sovereignty for the country.
Beyond agricultural production, the reform is part of a broader industrial transformation strategy. Madagascar aims to rebuild a complete local textile value chain by connecting cotton producers more closely with domestic industrial units. Earlier this year, authorities announced a cotton revival plan designed to increase local raw material supply for the textile industry and boost the added value of Malagasy exports.
To support this momentum, several operational measures have been highlighted, including the distribution of improved seeds, better productivity, technical assistance for farmers, and stronger professional organization across the sector. The government is also counting on the reinforcement of the Cotton Interprofessional Council (CIC) and new approvals for operators in order to improve transparency between producers, processors, and industrial players.
The introduction of a floor price therefore sends a strong signal to economic stakeholders. If properly implemented and backed by logistics, financing, and industrial investments, the policy could help turn cotton into a key pillar of economic diversification in Madagascar. In a country where agriculture remains central, the revival of this strategic crop could also strengthen exports, reduce dependence on textile imports, and stimulate local employment.
