Commercial Property in Madagascar: Offices and Warehouses Available

Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias

Madagascar, with its growing economy and promising business opportunities, is attracting more and more entrepreneurs looking to set up their companies. Whether you need a retail space, an office, or a warehouse, finding the perfect space for your business is a crucial step. This article will guide you through the different options and aspects to consider when finding the ideal professional space on the Big Island.

Best Strategies for Finding Your Future Professional Space

To find the right space for your business in Madagascar, several options are available to you:

Use specialized real estate agencies: This is often the most effective and secure method, especially if you are not familiar with the local market. Agencies have a wide portfolio of properties and can advise you on the best opportunities.

Browse online listings: Many Malagasy websites like e-trano.com or cessionpme.com offer listings for professional rentals. This is a good way to get an idea of prices and available offers.

Prospect in the field: In some cities, it is common to see “For Rent” signs directly on the facades of vacant spaces. Do not hesitate to walk through the neighborhoods that interest you.

Use your professional network: Word of mouth works very well in Madagascar. Talk about your search around you; you might get some good leads.

Contact industrial zones and business parks: If you are looking for a warehouse or a large space, these structures may have available spaces at attractive rates.

Good to know:

Prioritize recognized business districts or dynamic commercial areas to maximize your company’s visibility. Also, make sure the chosen space is easily accessible for your customers and employees.

Key Players in Malagasy Commercial Real Estate

Several real estate agencies specialize in renting professional spaces in Madagascar. Among the most reputable, we can mention:

  • Aloha Immo Services: Based in Tulear, this agency offers commercial spaces, offices, and warehouses throughout the southwest of the island.
  • Immoconseil Madagascar: Mainly present in Antananarivo, it offers a wide selection of professional properties.
  • Maison Immobilier: A reference agency for finding spaces in the capital and its surroundings.
  • Madagascar Real Estate: Specializing in high-end real estate, including for businesses.
  • Agence Immobilière de Madagascar (AIM): One of the oldest agencies in the country, with recognized expertise.

These agencies can not only help you find the ideal space but also guide you through the administrative and legal procedures related to renting.

Good to know:

Do not hesitate to contact several agencies to compare offers and services. Some may have interesting exclusives.

The Perfect File: Essential Documents for Renting

To rent a professional space in Madagascar, you will generally need to provide the following documents:

  • Extract from the Trade and Companies Register (RCS)
  • Company bylaws
  • Tax Identification Number (NIF)
  • Statistical card
  • Latest financial statements (if the company already exists)
  • ID document
  • Proof of residence
  • Bank statement
  • Business plan (for new companies)

It is also common for the landlord to request a security deposit, usually equivalent to 2 or 3 months’ rent.

Good to know:

Make sure all your documents are up to date and compliant with Malagasy law. This will greatly facilitate the rental process.

Budget to Plan: How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Professional Space?

Rental prices for professional spaces in Madagascar vary considerably depending on the city, neighborhood, and type of property. Here are some average estimates:

In Antananarivo (the capital): – Offices in the city center: $15 to $30 / m² / month – Well-located retail spaces: $20 to $40 / m² / month – Warehouses on the outskirts: $5 to $10 / m² / month

In secondary cities (Toamasina, Antsirabe, Mahajanga): – Offices: $8 to $20 / m² / month – Retail spaces: $10 to $25 / m² / month – Warehouses: $3 to $8 / m² / month

You should also budget for operating expenses (about 10-15% of the rent) and sometimes agency fees (usually one month’s rent).

Good to know:

Prices are often negotiable, especially for long-term commitments. Do not hesitate to discuss terms with the landlord or agency.

Emerging Cities: Where to Set Up to Optimize Costs?

While Antananarivo remains the essential economic center of Madagascar, other cities offer interesting opportunities at more affordable costs:

Toamasina (Tamatave): The country’s main port, this city is ideal for businesses related to international trade or logistics. Rents are about 30-40% cheaper than in Antananarivo.

Antsirabe: The third-largest city in the country, it is attracting more and more industries thanks to its temperate climate and developing infrastructure. Real estate prices are very competitive.

Mahajanga: This coastal city in the northwest is experiencing a tourism boom and offers interesting opportunities for service companies. Rents are particularly attractive.

Toliara (Tulear): The main city in the south, it benefits from growing investments, particularly in the mining sector. It is an option to consider for companies targeting the southern market of the island.

Antsiranana (Diego-Suarez): Located in the far north, this port city offers opportunities in tourism and logistics, with very competitive real estate costs.

Good to know:

Choosing a secondary city can allow you to significantly reduce your setup costs, but make sure the local infrastructure meets your business needs.

Government Support: Aid and Incentives for Setting Up

The Malagasy government has implemented several measures to encourage businesses to set up in the country:

Free Zones: These zones offer tax and customs advantages to exporting companies. They are present in several regions of the country and often offer spaces at preferential rates.

Economic Development Board of Madagascar (EDBM): This government agency can help you find suitable spaces and guide you through your setup procedures. It also offers free support services.

Tax Incentives: Depending on your business sector and the region of establishment, you may benefit from temporary corporate tax exemptions or reductions in customs duties.

Industrial Parks: The government is developing industrial parks in several regions, offering modern infrastructure and attractive rents for businesses.

Regional Development Programs: Some regions offer specific aid (subsidies, preferential rate loans) to encourage businesses to set up in their area.

Good to know:

The eligibility conditions for this aid can be complex. Do not hesitate to get support from a local expert or the EDBM to optimize your chances of benefiting from them.

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About the author
Cyril Jarnias

Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.

On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.

Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.

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