From May through November 1942, the Battle of Madagascar took place on the northern tip of the island nation near the town of Antsiranana (also known as Diego-Suarez).

Allied forces feared that the Japanese government would take Madagascar and use it as a base to control the Indian Ocean.

France offered three options in the constitutional referendum of September 1958: to be an overseas territory; a department; or "a state [...] that will deal with the French republic on a basis of equality... within the larger community".

[5] Madagascar's main export products to France include: textiles, agricultural and fish products whereas France's main exports to Madagascar include: mechanical and electrical machinery and processed food and drinks.

French companies such as Crédit Agricole, Société Générale, Orange and Total all have offices and operate in Madagascar.