A new law in Comoros reserving certain small-scale commercial activities for people who are Comorian by birth is creating uncertainty among thousands of Malagasy nationals living and working across the island nation.

The legislation was promulgated on July 21 and has not yet been enforced, but it has already raised concerns among the estimated 20,000 Malagasy people living in Comoros, many of whom depend on small businesses and informal trading for their livelihoods.

The restrictions particularly affect activities such as small-scale commerce, where foreign nationals have established businesses serving local communities. Supporters of the measure say it is intended to promote economic sovereignty and protect opportunities for Comorian citizens.

However, affected Malagasy traders fear that enforcement could threaten their incomes and their ability to support families in Madagascar. The issue has therefore become an important social and economic question as authorities prepare to implement the new rules.

The coming enforcement of the law could significantly reshape Comoros’ small-business sector and relations with its large Malagasy community.