The top-level domain (TLD) “.mg” is the country code TLD (ccTLD) for Madagascar. It is administered by NIC-MG (Network Information Center Madagascar).
These country code TLDs have some general characteristics. They usually consist of 2 letters, are typically based on the ISO 3166-1 alpha-2 country codes, and are intended for use within the respective countries but there aren’t strict restrictions and thus many are used globally.
The “mg” domain operates under regulations set by the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA), a division of ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers), an organization responsible for coordinating the maintenance and procedures of several databases related to the namespaces and numerical spaces of the Internet, ensuring the network’s stable and secure operation. The IANA’s report on “mg” TLD can be viewed on their official website [IANA — .mg Domain Delegation Data](https://data.iana.org/TLD/tlds-alpha-by-domain.txt).
The registration of “.mg” domain names is open to all entities, even those outside of Madagascar. Anyone interested in registering a “.mg” domain can do so, but through an accredited registrar. This allows businesses, organizations, and individuals around the world to secure their brand or identity within the Madagascar market.
Several levels of domain, including third-level domains, are available beneath the “.mg” ccTLD. Examples are “.org.mg” for organizations, “.nom.mg” for individual names (personal websites), “.gov.mg” for government entities, “.prv.mg” for private institutions and “.tm.mg” for trademark owners. The registrars provide specific advice regarding these categories and the respective registration procedures.
As with other TLDs, the “.mg” domain names are utilized to improve search engine optimization inside the country, build trust among the local population, and protect a brand or trademark within Madagascar.
The domains are generally registered for one year and can be renewed. The performance of “.mg” domains, as for all domains, can be influenced by many factors, such as SEO optimization, website speed, content quality, relevancy, etc.
Complete regulations and guidelines on the “.mg” TLD can be found on the NIC-MG’s official website or in discussion with any accredited “.mg” domain name registrar.
Sources:
1. [IANA — .mg Domain Delegation Data](https://data.iana.org/TLD/tlds-alpha-by-domain.txt)
2. [ISO 3166-1 country codes](https://www.iso.org/iso-3166-country-codes.html).
