The second session of the Mauritius-Madagascar Joint Commission (JC) was held on 17 May 2024 and witnessed the participation of ministers and other senior government officials from both countries. Discussions revolved around bilateral topics aimed at strengthening interactions and driving economic development, such as air connectivity, judicial cooperation, economic opportunities, cultural exchanges, labour migration, and combating illicit trafficking.

It will be recalled that the JC is an initiative that was formulated and agreed by both countries during the visit of the then-President of Madagascar, Mr. Hery Rajaonarimampianina in Mauritius back in 2016. The first session of the JC was held in May 2018 and this second session further cements the bilateral cultural and economic ties between both countries. Madagascar remains one of the biggest trading partners for Mauritius, with Exports* to Madagascar amounting to USD135.95 million during 2023 and Imports* from Madagascar amounting to USD43.44 million during 2023. In addition, Mauritius and Madagascar have a Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) in place since 1994 and this has proved to be a useful tool in the elimination of double taxation on the same income streams and has further helped in the promotion of intercountry trade and investments.

* source: Trading Economics website