Madagascar ranks as the fifth poorest country in the world. Madagascar’s poverty is currently projected to remain around 79.4 percent (based on an international poverty line of US $2.15 per person per day, in 2017 PPP). Most Malagasy can only afford immediate necessities.

Labeling: When selling, there is no legal requirement to translate labels into Malagasy, but the price must be displayed. Prices are usually displayed with all taxes included.