Madagascar has officially notified the World Trade Organization's (WTO) Committee on Safeguards that it has launched an investigation into the import of diapers and sanitary napkins.

In its notification, Madagascar recently stated that it is prepared to consult with WTO members who have a substantial interest as exporters of the covered products. This is in line with Article 12.4 of the Agreement on Safeguards, WTO said in a media release.

A safeguard investigation aims to determine if the increased imports of a product are causing, or threatening to cause, serious harm to a domestic industry. Importers, exporters, and other stakeholders will have the opportunity to present evidence and views during the investigation, and respond to the presentations of other interested parties.

Madagascar is an island nation located off the southeastern coast of Africa. It ranks as one of the top Sub-Saharan African countries in textile exports to the European Union and the US, according to the International Trade Administration.