The Economic Development Board of Madagascar (EDBM) has entered a new chapter with the appointment of Yvon Tsimbazafy Randriamialison as Chairman of its Board of Directors. Shortly after taking office, he identified the revitalization of public-private dialogue as his top priority, at a time when relations between the government and the business community have become increasingly strained.
The new chairman stated that the EDBM will align its actions with the government’s vision by promoting high-impact projects that directly benefit the population, while fostering entrepreneurship, investment, and private sector development. He also emphasized the importance of accelerating initiatives aimed at improving Madagascar’s business climate in order to strengthen the country’s appeal to both domestic and international investors.
This commitment comes amid growing tensions between public authorities and the private sector. In late June, the Groupement des Entreprises de Madagascar (GEM) suspended the participation of its representatives in government governance bodies and in the public-private dialogue framework following the CNaPS-SMGD case, which involves several board members representing the employers’ organization. The decision raised concerns about the stability of Madagascar’s business environment and the continuity of ongoing economic reforms.
In response to the situation, Prime Minister Mamitiana Rajaonarison called earlier this month for renewed discussions and a restoration of trust between the government and the private sector. According to Yvon Tsimbazafy Randriamialison, this process is already underway. He indicated that discussions between the government and the GEM have begun and are expected to continue in the coming days with the objective of rebuilding a constructive partnership.
A magistrate specializing in financial matters and currently serving as Deputy Secretary-General of the Presidency of the Republic, Yvon Tsimbazafy Randriamialison succeeds Andrianaina Rabarisoa, who was recently appointed First President of the Council of State. He now leads a board composed of several government officials, including the ministers responsible for Foreign Affairs, Industrialization and Private Sector Development, Labour, Agriculture, and Energy.
His appointment comes at a strategic moment for Madagascar, where investor confidence largely depends on the quality of cooperation between public institutions and the private sector. By making dialogue his foremost priority, the EDBM aims to help restore business confidence, encourage investment, support private sector growth, and accelerate reforms designed to enhance the country’s economic competitiveness.
