Digitizing procedures for efficiency

The Directorate General of Customs in Madagascar has initiated a series of reforms to modernize airport infrastructure. The facilities at Antananarivo International Airport, along with other airports across the country, no longer meet current international standards.

The Customs Directorate is facing numerous challenges, particularly the lack of compliant infrastructure at both Ivato and other airports in Madagascar. These deficiencies hinder the effective fulfillment of the customs mission. Observations by the Director General of Customs since the inauguration of the new Antananarivo airport in 2021 have highlighted these issues. To address them, Malagasy Customs must establish a modern, digital, and transparent work environment that enhances operational efficiency.

Renovations are being undertaken to bring the infrastructure in line with international standards. According to the Directorate General of Customs, demolition work began recently, and reconstruction is now underway. These improvements aim to enhance working conditions for customs officers and streamline passenger processing.

A key component of this reform is the digitization of customs procedures. Many passengers are unaware of the customs process, prompting Customs to issue the Customs Clearance Guide for Travelers. The introduction of the « e-tariff » platform and the « e-form » tool for passenger registration is expected to significantly reduce processing times from 20 minutes to as little as five. Additionally, one of the primary goals of this reform is to minimize direct contact between customs officers and passengers, thereby reducing the risk of corruption.