The United Kingdom’s trade partnership with Madagascar is anchored in two complementary frameworks: the expanded Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS) and the UK–Eastern and Southern Africa Economic Partnership Agreement (UKESA EPA). Together, they provide Malagasy exporters with some of the world’s most generous trade preferences, including 100% tariff-free access on thousands of products, simpler and more flexible rules of origin, and streamlined processes for integrating into global supply chains.
These agreements offer key benefits for Malagasy exporters, including reduced tariffs and fewer trade barriers, duty-free access on nearly all products, removal of nuisance and seasonal tariffs, and continued protection for sensitive domestic industries. Rules of origin have been made simpler and more generous, with higher non-originating content thresholds of up to 75%, alternative product-specific rules, and wide cumulation options with over 90 developing countries. Effective January 2026, Madagascar can also source materials from all African countries with UK association agreements, expanding regional cumulation opportunities.
The UK-Madagascar trade relationship provides Malagasy businesses predictable and generous preferential arrangements, supporting access to the UK’s £3 trillion economy and 69 million consumers. The DCTS, launched in June 2023, offers “Comprehensive Preferences,” granting 99% tariff-free access to the UK market. These schemes enable Malagasy firms to build competitive regional value chains while maintaining preferential market access.
Madagascar-based businesses can export under either the DCTS or the UK–ESA EPA, choosing based on documentation requirements, supply chain models, rules of origin, and sector-specific advantages. To claim preferential access, exporters must classify goods correctly, comply with rules of origin, maintain supplier declarations and proofs of origin, and meet UK regulatory standards, including customs, food safety, phytosanitary, and labelling requirements.
The UK government supports Malagasy exporters with guidance and resources, including detailed instructions on how the schemes work, finding UK buyers and trading partners, and claiming DCTS preferences. Initiatives like Growth Gateway and Digital Pathways connect Malagasy distributors, agents, wholesalers, and partners with UK suppliers, provide market insights, business advice, and access to finance, and facilitate B2B connections. Trade enquiries can be submitted directly to the UK Embassy in Antananarivo for further assistance.
