Madagascar vs Taiwan
Madagascar has a population of 31.7M, compared to Taiwan's 23.3M. Madagascar is 1.4 times more populous than Taiwan. Madagascar covers 587,041 km², 16.2 times larger than Taiwan's 36,197 km².
MadagascarTaiwan| Population | +36.1%31.7M | -26.5%23.3M |
| Area | +1521.8%587,041 km² | -93.8%36,197 km² |
| GDP | $17.4B | — |
| GDP Per Capita | $544.988 | — |
| Life Expectancy | 63.6 yrs | — |
| Infant Mortality | 44.2 | — |
| Literacy Rate | — | — |
| Unemployment | 3.0% | — |
| Capital | Antananarivo | Taipei |
| Region | Africa | Asia |
| Languages | French, Malagasy | Chinese |
| Currencies | MGA (Ar) | TWD ($) |
Last updated: March 2026
All data sourced from World Bank Open Data (2025) and REST Countries API. Economic data may reflect most recent available year.
Population Comparison
Madagascar is 1.4 times more populous than Taiwan, with 31.7M residents compared to 23.3M. Madagascar is a nation of 31.7M people, while Taiwan is a nation of 23.3M people. In terms of population density, Madagascar averages 54 people per km² (moderate), while Taiwan averages 644 people per km² (dense). Madagascar has grown at 2.61% annually over the past decade. Population growth data is not available for Taiwan.
Economy Comparison
Madagascar is classified as a low-income economy, while Taiwan is classified as a low-income economy. Madagascar's GDP stands at $17.4B. GDP data is not available for Taiwan. Madagascar's GDP per capita of $544.988 is 75% below the regional average of 2,200 for Africa. Economic indicator data is not available for Taiwan.
Health & Quality of Life
Madagascar has a life expectancy of 63.6 years, which is 8.4 years below the global average of 72 years. Life expectancy data is not available for Taiwan. Madagascar's infant mortality rate is 44.2 per 1,000 live births. Infant mortality data is not available for Taiwan.
Geographic Comparison
Madagascar (587,041 km²) is 16.2 times larger by land area than Taiwan (36,197 km²). Madagascar shares borders with 0 countries, while Taiwan borders 0 countries. Madagascar spans 1 timezone, compared to Taiwan's 1 timezone. Madagascar lies in Africa, while Taiwan is located in Asia. Madagascar is categorized within the Africa region (Eastern Africa), whereas Taiwan belongs to Asia (Eastern Asia).
Key Differences
The most significant difference between Madagascar and Taiwan is in land area: Madagascar's 587,041 km² compared to Taiwan's 36,197 km² represents a 94% gap. The most significant difference between Madagascar and Taiwan is in population: Madagascar's 31.7M compared to Taiwan's 23.3M represents a 27% gap. These disparities reflect the broader structural differences between Madagascar's low-income economy and Taiwan's low-income economy.
At a Glance: What the Numbers Mean
Population Density
Taiwan is 11.9x more densely populated than Madagascar (644 vs 54 people per km²). Higher density typically correlates with more urbanization, greater demand for public transit, and higher housing costs. Madagascar's lower density suggests more rural land use and potentially lower urban congestion.
Travel Comparison
Madagascar vs Taiwan for Families
For family travel, Madagascar generally edges ahead due to stronger economic indicators and more developed tourism infrastructure. Taiwan offers its own advantages, including a more compact geography that is easier to navigate with children. Both countries have family-friendly attractions, though Madagascar's higher GDP per capita typically correlates with better tourist infrastructure, public transport, and English-language availability.
Madagascar vs Taiwan for Budget Travelers
Madagascar is typically the more budget-friendly destination, with a GDP per capita of $544.988 translating to lower prices for accommodation, food, and local transport. Budget travelers in Madagascar can expect to spend significantly less per day than in Taiwan. However, Taiwan may offer better value in specific categories such as intercity transport or package deals. Shoulder season travel in either country helps reduce costs further.
Madagascar vs Taiwan for Retirees
Madagascar's life expectancy of 63.6 years suggests stronger healthcare infrastructure, which is a key factor for retirees. Taiwan may offer a lower cost of living, which stretches pension income further. Key considerations for retirees include visa and residency requirements, healthcare access, climate preferences, and proximity to international airports. Both countries have established expat communities, though the specific visa options and healthcare quality vary by region within each country.
Madagascar vs Taiwan for Digital Nomads
For digital nomads choosing between Madagascar and Taiwan, key factors include internet infrastructure, visa policies, cost of living, and timezone compatibility with clients. Madagascar spans 1 timezone while Taiwan covers 1. Cost of living varies by city in both countries. Both countries have growing digital nomad communities, though specific visa requirements for remote workers differ and should be verified before committing to a longer stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is bigger, Madagascar or Taiwan by population?
Madagascar is larger by population, with 31.7M residents compared to Taiwan's 23.3M. Madagascar is 1.4 times more populous than Taiwan.
Which country has a higher GDP, Madagascar or Taiwan?
GDP data is not available for Taiwan. Please refer to the World Bank for the most current figures.
How does life expectancy compare between Madagascar and Taiwan?
Life expectancy data is not available for Taiwan. Madagascar has a life expectancy of 63.6 years.
Which country is larger by area, Madagascar or Taiwan?
Madagascar is larger by land area, covering 587,041 km² compared to Taiwan's 36,197 km². Madagascar is 16.2 times larger than Taiwan.
What languages are spoken in Madagascar and Taiwan?
Madagascar recognizes the following languages: French, Malagasy. Taiwan recognizes: Chinese. The two countries do not share an official language.
Which country has lower inflation, Madagascar or Taiwan?
Inflation data is not available for Madagascar or Taiwan.
Is Madagascar or Taiwan better for a family holiday?
For family travel, Madagascar generally edges ahead due to stronger economic indicators and more developed tourism infrastructure. Taiwan offers its own advantages, including a more compact geography that is easier to navigate with children. Both countries have family-friendly attractions, though Ma...
Is Madagascar or Taiwan cheaper to visit?
Madagascar is typically the more budget-friendly destination, with a GDP per capita of $544.988 translating to lower prices for accommodation, food, and local transport. Budget travelers in Madagascar can expect to spend significantly less per day than in Taiwan. However, Taiwan may offer better val...
Is Madagascar or Taiwan better for retirement?
Madagascar's life expectancy of 63.6 years suggests stronger healthcare infrastructure, which is a key factor for retirees. Taiwan may offer a lower cost of living, which stretches pension income further. Key considerations for retirees include visa and residency requirements, healthcare access, cli...
Is Madagascar or Taiwan better for digital nomads?
For digital nomads choosing between Madagascar and Taiwan, key factors include internet infrastructure, visa policies, cost of living, and timezone compatibility with clients. Madagascar spans 1 timezone while Taiwan covers 1. Cost of living varies by city in both countries. Both countries have grow...