Madagascar Defends Its Economic Interests

A Malagasy delegation traveled to Washington to advocate for the renewal of AGOA and discuss a partnership on critical minerals with the United States.

Led by Lantosoa Rakotomalala, Madagascar’s Ambassador to the United States, the delegation was led by Ralambofiringa David, Minister of Industrialization and Trade, and Rakotomalala Olivier Herindrainy, Minister of Mines. The mission also included representatives from the Malagasy private sector (GEM, GEFP, MAZAVA) and the American company Energy Fuels. The objective was to demonstrate the economic benefits of the AGOA program for Madagascar and the United States.

The delegation met with influential members of the U.S. Senate, including Senators Ron Wyden, Chris Coons, Ted Cruz, and Mike Crapo. These discussions highlighted the importance of trade between the two countries and the need to strengthen cooperation on strategic mineral resources. Malagasy representatives also attended a House Ways and Means Subcommittee hearing on U.S. trade priorities. With these actions, Madagascar hopes to secure its access to the U.S. market, attract investment, and strengthen its role in the supply of essential critical minerals.