Madagascar HS Code Lookup

An HS (Harmonized System) code is an internationally standardised classification system for traded products. It uses 6-digit codes maintained by the World Customs Organization, with countries adding 2 more digits for national tariffs. Madagascar uses 8-digit HS codes for customs purposes.

Start by describing your product using this lookup tool, then verify the classification with your customs broker or transitaire. The first 2 digits indicate the chapter (e.g., 09 = coffee/tea/spices), the next 2 the heading, and the final digits the subheading. Your transitaire can confirm the correct code for Madagascar customs.

Madagascar applies ad valorem customs duties from 0% to 20% on the CIF value. Essential goods (medicine, industrial machinery) often fall at 0-5%. Standard goods are typically 10%. Luxury or restricted items attract 20%. Use the lookup above to check rates by category.

Yes. Madagascar has preferential trade agreements with the EU (APEi — 0% on most goods), SADC (reduced rates), COMESA (reduced rates), and AfCFTA (progressive reduction). You need a valid certificate of origin to qualify for preferential rates.

MFN (Most Favoured Nation) rates are the standard tariff rates Madagascar applies to WTO member countries. Preferential rates are lower — sometimes 0% — available when your goods originate from a country with a bilateral or regional trade agreement with Madagascar.

CIF stands for Cost, Insurance, and Freight. All customs duties in Madagascar are calculated on this combined value — the purchase price of goods plus marine insurance and freight charges to Toamasina. VAT of 20% is then applied on the CIF value plus the customs duty.

Not all products require a specific import licence, but all imports must go through a registered customs broker (transitaire) with an ASYUDA declaration. Some categories — pharmaceuticals, food, telecoms equipment, and vehicles — require additional permits from the relevant ministry.

Key documents include: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or airway bill, certificate of origin (for preferential rates), and product-specific permits. Your transitaire will use these to classify your goods under the correct HS code in the ASYCUDA system.

Excise duties (droits d'accise) apply to specific product categories on top of standard customs duty. Alcohol, tobacco, fuel, vehicles, and some luxury goods attract excise duties of 5-100%+. These are calculated separately from the CIF-based customs duty.

Madagascar periodically updates its customs tariff schedule to align with WTO commitments, trade agreements, and domestic policy changes. Always verify current rates with your transitaire or the DGD (Direction Générale des Douanes) before importing.

Madagascar has a de minimis threshold of approximately $50 USD. Goods valued below this amount may be exempt from customs duties, though VAT still applies. This threshold applies to the CIF value of the shipment.

Yes. Ekutano Advisory provides HS code classification support as part of our customs brokerage services. We can help determine the correct 8-digit code, identify applicable preferential rates, and prepare the documentation needed for ASYUDA filing.