Frequently Asked Questions
You can send SMS messages in Madagascar through local mobile operators like Airtel, Orange, Telma, and Bip, or through international providers like Twilio, Plivo, Sinch, and Infobip. Local operators typically charge per SMS, while international providers may offer different pricing models and features. It's recommended to check with each provider for their latest plans and pricing.
Local operators in Madagascar generally charge between 50 and 100 Ariary per SMS. International providers like Twilio, Plivo, Sinch, and Infobip offer prices around $0.03 USD per SMS, varying based on volume and destination. Always check with specific providers for current rates.
Madagascar's SMS pricing is influenced by competition between local and international providers, as well as the growing popularity of OTT messaging apps. Regulatory oversight by ARTEC aims to ensure fair pricing, but market dynamics continue to impact rates.
International SMS providers are often a good choice for businesses needing advanced features like link shortening, click tracking, or robust security measures. They may also offer competitive international messaging rates and strong integrations for enterprise solutions. Be sure to check individual providers' pricing details and terms.
Yes, you can send international SMS from Madagascar. Both local carriers and international providers offer this service. Local carriers usually charge between 200-500 Ariary per international SMS, while international providers may offer more competitive rates depending on the destination and volume.
Airtel Madagascar offers SMS services with per-SMS rates and bundled packages, providing cost savings when combined with data and voice plans. They also frequently have promotional offers, so it's advisable to check their website for the latest deals.
Orange Madagascar integrates its mobile money service, Orange Money, with SMS, allowing users to send money via text message. However, additional fees may apply for this service, so it's essential to refer to their official resources for updated pricing details.
Telma Mobile maintains competitive SMS rates within the typical range of other local operators. They primarily focus on prepaid options, giving users flexibility in managing their SMS expenses.
Value-added SMS services available in Madagascar from providers like Twilio include link shortening, click tracking, SMS pumping protection, and fraud prevention systems. These services often come at additional, but sometimes reduced fees, depending on the provider.
The rising popularity of Over-The-Top (OTT) messaging apps like WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger is impacting traditional SMS usage in Madagascar. This shift presents challenges for traditional SMS providers and creates opportunities for new communication solutions.
According to 6Wresearch, the Madagascar SMS Marketing market is expected to grow through 2030. This growth is driven by increasing demand from SMEs and large enterprises across various sectors. Another 6Wresearch report highlights the growth of the Madagascar Enterprise A2P SMS Market.
Consider factors like pricing and volume discounts, security and fraud protection, integration capabilities with existing systems, delivery reliability, and the availability of value-added services that align with your communication goals.
Always contact the specific SMS provider directly for the most up-to-date pricing and service information. This is the best way to ensure you have accurate details for making informed decisions.
ARTEC (Autorité de Régulation des Technologies de Communication) regulates Madagascar's telecommunications market, including SMS pricing, to ensure fair competition and quality service for consumers.
Madagascar SMS API Pricing Comparison
Send SMS in Madagascar for $0.011–$0.022 USD per message with local operators (Airtel, Orange, Yas) or $0.028–$0.038 USD with international API providers (Twilio, Plivo, Sinch, Infobip). Compare SMS rates, understand ARTEC regulations, evaluate bundles, and choose the right provider for your business in 2025.
Understanding Madagascar's SMS Pricing Landscape
Local telecommunication operators and international service providers offer different SMS pricing in Madagascar. The Autorité de Régulation des Technologies de Communication (ARTEC) regulates the market to ensure fair pricing and quality service. The Madagascar telecom MNO market reached $0.84 billion in 2025 and will reach $1.095 billion by 2030.
Over-The-Top (OTT) messaging apps like WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger impact traditional SMS usage and pricing strategies. This shift creates both challenges and opportunities for your business communication.
Market Leadership (2025): Telma (rebranded to Yas in November 2024) leads with over 5 million subscribers, followed by Airtel Madagascar (~4.9 million subscribers) and Orange Madagascar. Three incumbent operators and emerging satellite entrants drive moderate competition.
Madagascar Local Mobile Operators: SMS Rates and Pricing
Three local operators dominate Madagascar's mobile market, each offering competitive SMS pricing:
Airtel Madagascar: SMS Rates and Bundles
Per-SMS rates: 50–100 Ariary (~$0.011–$0.022 USD at 4,450 MGA/USD)
Airtel leverages pan-African scale to enhance mobile-money capabilities. In 2024, revenue grew 19.9% with mobile-money turnover surging 28.8%.
SMS Bundles: Airtel offers SMS bundles with data and voice plans for cost savings. Check their website for current promotional offers and specific package details.
Orange Madagascar: Pricing and Orange Money Integration
Per-SMS rates: 50–100 Ariary (~$0.011–$0.022 USD)
After securing a €30 million universal license in 2024, Orange accelerated rural rollout with NuRAN Wireless.
Orange Money SMS Integration: Send money via SMS with Orange Money (additional fees apply). Consult their official resources for current pricing and integration details.
Yas (formerly Telma Mobile): Bundle Pricing
Per-SMS rates: 50–100 Ariary (~$0.011–$0.022 USD)
Telma rebranded to Yas in November 2024 as part of Axian Telecom's pan-African strategy. Yas offers SMS bundles in their Offre First packages:
*Compared to highest pay-per-use rate of $0.022 USD per SMS
Yas retains first-mover status in 5G and operates Madagascar's longest fiber backbone. Visit their website for current pricing.
Bip Mobile Network
Bip offers similar pricing to other local carriers with promotional packages. Contact Bip directly for current pricing.
Exchange Rate: 1 USD ≈ 4,436–4,450 MGA (Q4 2025). Rates fluctuate – verify current pricing with operators directly.
SMS Regulations and Compliance in Madagascar
Follow these regulatory requirements when you operate SMS services in Madagascar. ARTEC oversees telecommunications compliance and enforces these guidelines:
Regulatory Framework
Interdepartmental Order 2471/2016 regulates SMS communications and establishes guidelines for telecommunications services in Madagascar. ARTEC (www.artec.mg) grants licenses and ensures compliance in communications and radio sectors.
Key Compliance Requirements
Permitted Sending Hours
Send messages between 6:00 AM and 10:00 PM Madagascar time (UTC+3). Orange Madagascar prohibits SMS to subscribers between 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM, unless the receiver requests it.
Message Frequency Limits
Send no more than three messages per recipient per day, except for emergencies or requested information. All operators enforce this limit.
Content Restrictions
Opt-In/Opt-Out Requirements
Obtain explicit subscriber consent for marketing messages. Include clear opt-out instructions in every marketing message.
Contact for Regulatory Details:
International SMS API Provider Pricing for Madagascar
Four international SMS providers operate in Madagascar with varying pricing models and features:
Note: Prices vary based on destination and volume. Confirm pricing with each provider before committing.
SMS API Features and Value-Added Services
Providers offer value-added services beyond basic SMS to enhance your communication:
Premium Services
Twilio and similar providers offer premium features at reduced fees (e.g., $0.015):
International Messaging Considerations
Madagascar SMS Market Trends and Growth Projections
Madagascar's SMS market evolves through technological advancements and consumer behavior changes:
Provider Updates
Yas (Axian Telecom) – November 2024 Rebrand
Telma Madagascar rebranded to Yas on November 26, 2024, as part of Axian Telecom's pan-African strategy. Yas operates in Madagascar, Comoros, Togo, Tanzania, and Senegal, serving 40 million users across Africa. The rebrand positions Axian Telecom as the sixth-largest African operator, targeting top 3 status. Yas maintains Telma's 5G leadership and extensive fiber infrastructure in Madagascar.
Orange Madagascar
After a €30 million universal license renewal in 2024, Orange accelerated rural network expansion with NuRAN Wireless, enhancing coverage and SMS delivery reliability across underserved areas.
Airtel Madagascar
Demonstrated strong growth with 2024 revenue increasing 19.9% year-over-year and mobile-money turnover surging 28.8%. Airtel continues leveraging pan-African scale to enhance mobile financial services integrated with SMS.
Twilio, Sinch, and Infobip
These providers continuously enhance security protocols, API capabilities, and enterprise integrations. Check their websites for the latest feature releases.
Plivo
Implemented new surcharges for specific traffic types (e.g., unregistered U.S. carrier traffic). Monitor their latest pricing adjustments.
Consumer Trends
Market Growth Projections
The Madagascar telecom MNO market reached $0.84 billion in 2025 and will reach $1.095 billion by 2030. According to 6Wresearch (2025), the Madagascar SMS Marketing market expects significant growth through 2030, segmented by enterprise size (SMEs and large enterprises) and end-use (retail, media & entertainment, travel, automotive, healthcare, IT & telecom, BFSI, and others).
SMS Provider Discounts and Promotional Offers
Providers offer promotions and discounts:
Local Carrier Promotions
Enterprise Solutions
How to Choose the Right SMS Provider for Madagascar
Evaluate these factors to select the right SMS provider for your Madagascar operations:
Important Note: Telma Mobile rebranded to Yas in November 2024. Use "Yas Madagascar" or "Yas (formerly Telma)" when you search for information or contact this operator.
Contact providers directly for current pricing and service information.
Data Sources and References
Market Data:
Regulatory Information:
Operator Information:
SMS Provider Pricing:
Last Updated: 2025 | Pricing and regulatory information subject to change. Always verify with official sources.