Applications, agencies, and social networks: buying abroad to resell in Madagascar is no longer reserved for large companies. However, with lead times of 45 to 60 days, transport costs, and uncertain quality, profitability is far from guaranteed.
In recent years, import-resale has become accessible to individuals in Madagascar. Young people and employees rely on apps or agencies to order products, mainly from China, before selling them locally, often via social networks. While this practice allows for starting with small volumes, it also imposes financial, logistical, and quality constraints.
To source products, buyers have two main options: handle the process directly on dedicated apps, or use intermediary agencies that manage purchasing and freight to Madagascar. Access to international suppliers has thus been democratized for anyone wishing to test this market.
A specialized agency confirms this trend: “We have been established since 2020, but we have recently seen a sharp rise in requests and growing interest in importation,” explains its manager. Their clientele ranges from individuals ordering a few pieces to companies shipping larger volumes, particularly through the port of Toamasina.
Social networks also serve as a springboard for beginners. Training courses are offered there starting at 15,000 ariary to learn the purchasing process. However, the sector sometimes lacks professionalism. “I paid 30,000 ariary for a module, but after making me wait, they never gave me access,” denounces one participant.
Another pitfall is the quality of the merchandise. Photos and descriptive sheets do not always guarantee the conformity of the final product. “We sometimes order a bit blindly. It is difficult to know exactly what we will receive,” confirms Solonantenaina, a reseller.
Added to this is the management of lead times and costs. The partner agency indicates that it generally takes between 45 and 60 days for delivery. The cost of transport varies according to the volume ordered: these are all parameters to be rigorously integrated into the calculation of margins and the final price.
Import-resale thus offers individuals a gateway to international trade without requiring heavy structures. But while opportunities are multiplying, the viability of the activity relies on strict management of product selection, transport costs, and delivery times.
Captured & Published at: 2026-09-30 05:53:34 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/09/commerce-les-particuliers-se-lancent.html
