Avocat en Droit Maritime et Commerce International

Madagascar Law Offices (MLO) is seeking an Avocat en Droit Maritime to join its Toamasina office, located near Madagascar's principal commercial port. Toamasina handles over 90% of Madagascar's international trade, making it the ideal location for a maritime and trade law practice. This mid-level role involves advising shipping companies, freight forwarders, commodity exporters, and port logistics operators on all aspects of maritime law, customs regulations, and international trade compliance.

You will handle cargo disputes, bill of lading claims, charter party agreements, and marine insurance matters. The role also encompasses customs classification disputes, trade sanctions compliance, and advising on Madagascar's membership obligations in COMESA and the Indian Ocean Commission. Regular appearances before the Tribunal de Première Instance de Toamasina are expected.

• Advise clients on maritime law matters including cargo disputes and charter party agreements
• Handle customs classification disputes and trade compliance issues
• Draft and review shipping contracts, freight agreements, and port logistics contracts
• Represent clients before the Tribunal de Première Instance de Toamasina
• Advise commodity exporters on trade sanctions, export controls, and COMESA regulations
• Manage marine insurance claims and coordinate with P&I clubs
• Liaise with the Autorité Portuaire de Toamasina and customs authorities

• CAPA certification and enrollment at the Barreau de Toamasina or Barreau d'Antananarivo
• 3-6 years of experience in maritime law, trade law, or shipping law
• Knowledge of Madagascar's Code Maritime, customs regulations, and port authority procedures
• Understanding of international trade agreements (COMESA, IOC, bilateral treaties)
• Fluency in French; English proficiency is essential for international shipping matters
• Experience with cargo claims, bill of lading disputes, and marine insurance
• Willingness to be based in Toamasina