A mineral ore refers to a naturally occurring rock or sediment that contains valuable minerals or elements that can be extracted and processed for various purposes. Mineral ores are economically valuable due to the presence of valuable minerals or metals. The Middle East is globally recognized for its abundant oil and gas reserves, which are major contributors to the region's mineral trade. Bauxite is the primary source of aluminum and is used in the production of various aluminum products. By being able to identify ore minerals accurately, a minerals merchant can assess the quality of the minerals they are dealing with. Madagascar's economy is largely based on agriculture, mining, fishing, and forestry. The country is one of the world's largest producers of vanilla, cloves, and ylang-ylang. Madagascar also exports significant quantities of coffee, cocoa, sugar, and textiles. Despite its rich natural resources, the country struggles with poverty and underdevelopment, relying on foreign aid and international investment to stimulate growth. The financial system in Madagascar is still underdeveloped. While there are several banks and microfinance institutions operating in the country, access to financial services, especially in rural areas, remains limited.
