On June 13, BAIC FOTON officially began delivering 312 urban cellbus to Madagascar. This order, a key outcome of the 2024 China-Africa Cooperation Forum Beijing Summit, not only marks the largest single export of buses from a Chinese brand to Africa, but also represents a new milestone in China-Africa cooperation on green transportation under the “Belt and Road” initiative. It signals the beginning of a new phase of high-quality development in China-Madagascar “Belt and Road” collaboration.
Under the strong leadership of BAIC FOTON's Party Committee, during the 2024 China-Africa Cooperation Forum Beijing Summit, Madagascar's President Rajoelina was invited to visit BAIC FOTON's Beijing headquarters. President Rajoelina emphasized that improving transportation infrastructure is key to driving economic growth and social progress in Madagascar's national transformation. During his visit to BAIC FOTON’s new energy cellbus, he expressed strong interest in the company’s electric buses and looked forward to deepening cooperation with BAIC FOTON.
BAIC FOTON promptly assembled an expert team to conduct in-depth research in Madagascar, evaluating vehicle usage scenarios, working conditions, vehicle performance, product configurations, and seating layouts. Based on this research, the team developed an integrated solution covering product customization, operational support, and maintenance services. Thanks to its green, intelligent technology and full lifecycle service system, BAIC FOTON stood out in a competitive field.
As a benchmark project for the China-Africa “Belt and Road” initiative, the 312 FOTON products delivered are specially designed to meet Madagascar's hot, rainy climate. They feature innovative smart temperature control systems and anti-corrosion body technologies. Additionally, the buses are optimized for local road conditions, with enhanced chassis durability and an improved seating layout to boost operational efficiency and passenger comfort.
Notably, the order will be delivered in stages to support major national events in Madagascar. The first 42 FOTON city bus will be showcased on the streets of the capital during Madagascar’s National Day celebrations on June 26, while the remaining 270 buses will be used for the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit in August, where they will demonstrate China’s manufacturing strength to African leaders and contribute to Africa’s green, intelligent development.
As a strong advocate of the “Belt and Road” initiative, BAIC FOTON entered the Madagascar market in 2012, collaborating closely with local partners. The company has since introduced a wide range of products, including heavy-duty trucks, light trucks, pickups, vans, and new energy vehicles, addressing Madagascar’s diverse transportation needs while helping to achieve carbon reduction targets. In addition to Madagascar, BAIC FOTON has made significant strides in South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana, Zambia, Ethiopia, and other African markets, achieving a series of successful collaborations. The company has also launched the African market development strategy, which includes three 3-year action plans aimed at strengthening the entire value chain, from products and networks to services, spare parts, finance, and talent. This will drive breakthroughs in key sectors like heavy-duty trucks, pickups, and buses, supporting the sustainable development of Africa’s transportation sector.
Under the theme “China-Africa Together Toward Modernization,” the official delivery of BAIC FOTON’s urban transport buses marks another solid achievement in the practical implementation of the China-Africa Cooperation Forum’s Beijing Summit spirit. Looking ahead, BAIC FOTON will continue to deepen its investment in the African market within the framework of the Forum, actively supporting the long-term development of China-Mali and broader China-Africa relations. Together with its African partners, BAIC FOTON is committed to contributing to the shared dream of modernization across the Global South and advancing the path of sustainable development through continued effort and collaboration.