All investors in Malawi are advised to consult with the Malawi Investment and Trade Centre (MITC) when considering setting up business in Malawi. The role of MITC is to facilitate and promote investment and trade in all sectors, allocate land to investors and regulate special economic zones.
MITC operates a One Stop Service Centre (OSSC) where investors can get all the essential information and assistance regarding investment and export processes in Malawi. Investors can contact the OSSC at the MITC head office in Lilongwe for access to land services and to apply for tax incentives. Investors can make online applications for an investment or export certificate and access relevant information on trade and investment through the MITC Smart Connect portal ( https://mitcsmartconnect.com ).
The key services offered by OSSC and MITC Smart Connect include:
| Relevant institutions | Malawi Investment and Trade Centre |
The Investment and Export Promotion Act, 2024, is a guiding framework for investing in Malawi. All sectors are open to foreign investment, subject to the minimum capital requirements of each industry as specified below. Investors can also participate in a public-private partnership across sectors.
Sector(s) |
100% domestically owned |
100% foreign-owned and
|
|
|
1. |
Banking financial services | USD 5,000,000 | USD 5,000,000 |
| 2. | Non-banking financial services | USD 1,500,000 | USD 1,500,000 |
| 3 | Energy, Mining | USD 500,000 | USD 500,000 |
| 4. | Deposit-taking microfinance institutions | K 250,000,000 | K 250,000,000 |
| 5. | Construction | USD 50,000 | USD 250,000 |
| 6. | Non-deposit-taking microfinance | K 150,000,000 | K 150,000,000 |
| 7 | Tourism and ICT services | USD 50,000 | USD 100,000 |
| 8 | Agriculture, Agro-processing, Manufacturing | USD 50,000 | USD 100,000 |
| 9. | Business and Professional Services | USD 20,000 | USD 50,000 |
Malawi currently requires at least 20% local ownership for electronic communication licenses, such as telecom services. In all other sectors, 100% foreign ownership is allowed.
Malawi provides a variety of legal structures for companies, thereby allowing investors the flexibility to determine the most suitable business structure and to manage risks.
There are four types of entities that can be registered for business in Malawi:
| Relevant documents | Malawi Investment Act, 2024 Minimum capital for investment 2025 |
Persons who wish to operate a business in Malawi are required by law to register their business, acquire tax identification number (TIN), obtain Investment Certificate from MITC and process their Business residence permit (BRP).
Registering Your Business. Business entities can be registered either online through the Malawi Business Registration System or by visiting the Registrar General's offices in Blantyre, Lilongwe and Mzuzu and completing the application form and submitting the relevant documents.
What is required for a company registration
|
The fees for the registration of a business varies based on the type of company and foreign-domestic ownership.
| Relevant documents | Business Names Registration Act Companies Act, 2013 Companies Rules and Regulations |
| Relevant institutions | Department of Registrar General Malawi Investment and Trade Centre |
Investors and companies should register for tax with the Malawi Revenue Authority. Registering for tax is free. The process can be completed at Msonkho online or by visiting any nearest MRA office to obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN). The Msonkho online is accessible through the MRA website.
MRA issues a Tax Identification Number (TIN) on registration, and the number should be used on any correspondence with the Authority. Taxpayers can use the Msonkho online system to manage their tax affairs, such as tax registration, updating their profile, and submitting returns.
| Relevant institutions | Malawi Revenue Authority |
Once a business is registered, Investors should obtain an Investment Certificate from MITC. The investment certificate facilitates the acquisition of land, investment incentives, and various services from MITC.
For further information on the process and procedures for the acquisition of an investment certificate, consult the Investment Procedures gateway of MITC.
| Type of Investor | Processing Fee (USD) | Issuance Fee (USD) | Validity Period |
| Foreign | 200 | 800 | 3 years |
| Domestic | 100 | 400 | 5 years |
| Relevant documents | Investment and Export Promotion_2024 Act |
| Relevant institutions | Malawi Investment and Trade Centre |
MITC further facilitates registration for obtaining a Business Residence Permit (BPR) and a Temporary Employment Permit through the One Stop Service Centre. BPR and TEPs are issued by the Department of Immigration of Malawi.
For further information on the process and procedures for the acquisition of BRP and TEP consult the Investment Procedures gateway of MITC.
| Relevant institutions | Department of Immigration |
Once an investment Certificate is approved, the MITC assists investors to get additional licenses and permits that may be required, depending on the nature of the investment.
| Type of Activity | Licensing or Registration Authority | Certification |
| Development, operation, and occupation of Special Economic Zones | Malawi Investment and Trade Centre | SEZ Developers License SEZ Operators License SEZ Enterprise License |
| Environmental impact assessment and management | Malawi Environment Protection Authority | Environment and Social Impact Assessment Certificate |
| Hospitality business | Malawi Tourism Authority | Tourism Development Certificate |
| Electricity generation, transmission, and distribution; Renewable energy | Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority | Renewable Energy Technolgies License Electrical Installation License Liquid Fuel and Gas transportation License Storage Registration Certificate Storage Licence |
| Industrial and medicinal hemp production and processing | Cannabis Regulatory Authority | Cultivation license, Processing Licence, Research License, Distribution /Export license |
| Medical or Clinical entity | Medical Council of Malawi | Premises license, Private Practice license, Medical Camp Registration |
| Pharmacy | Pharmacy Medicines and Poisons Board | Personnel License (pharmacists, pharmacy technologists, and pharmacy assistants), Business Premises Licensing (pharmacies, wholesalers, manufacturers) Import or Export permit for medicines, medical devices, narcotics, and controlled substances); Marketing Authorizations |
| Education (Primary and Secondary) entity | Ministry of Education | School Registration Certificate |
| Tertiary education institutions | National Council for Higher Education | Accreditation Certificate |
| Telecommunication services and infrastructure | Malawi Communications and Regulatory Authority | Application Services license (voice, data, internet); Network facilities licenses (towers, cables, satellite hubs, transmission poles) Network services ( internet service providers) |
| Road Transport Services | Department of Road Traffic | Vehicle Registration Certificate; Certificate of fitness |
| Air transport services | Civil Aviation Authority | Overflight/Landing permits; Aircraft Registration or CAA authorization; Pilot license |
| Water Transport Service | Department of Marine Services | Vehicle registration and operating licenses |
| Construction industry | Construction Industry Regulatory Authority | Construction Permits, License, and Approvals |
| Irrigation and Water Services | Ministry of Agriculture Department of Irrigation and Water Development; National Water Resources Authority | Water Abstraction license |
| Seed Production | Department of Agriculture Research Services | Malawi Certified Seed Certificate |
| Wholesale, retail, import, and export trade, franchise, and dealership | Ministry of Trade | Trade License |
| Customs clearing and Freight forwarding | Malawi Revenue Authority | Customs Agents Licenses |
| Financial sector | Reserve Bank of Malawi | e.g. Banking licence |
| Relevant institutions | Department of Registrar General Malawi Investment and Trade Centre Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority Malawi Revenue Authority Malawi Environment Protection Authority |
There are a number of tax incentives provided for in the Taxation Act that may apply to raw materials, machinery, and equipment in different sectors of the economy. The incentives include annual allowances, initial allowances, investment allowances, transport allowances, export allowances, training allowance, and mining allowance. Tax incentives for investments in Malawi are compiled and administered by the Malawi Revenue Authority. Details of the applicable incentives can be found in a publication known as the Malawi Tax Incentives Handbook.
There are two broad categories of tax incentives in Malawi: customs and excise tax incentives and domestic tax incentives.
1. Customs and Excise Tax Incentives apply to qualifying goods imported by business persons or entities operating in Malawi. The Customs and Excise Tax incentives are in two forms, i.e., General Customs and Excise Tax Incentives and Specific Customs and Excise Tax Incentives.
2. Domestic Tax Incentives, which can be accessed by every taxpayer operating as a ‘business person’ or business entity’ in the country.
Domestic Tax Incentives are in two (2) forms, i.e., General Incentives and Specific Incentives. Export Sector, the Agriculture Sector, and the Mining Sector.
Further to the handbook publication, the government of Malawi introduced sunset clauses and designated agro-processing, energy generation and distribution, and mega farms as Malawi's priority sectors for a period of 10 years, from 2023 to 2033. All companies operating in the priority industry must have at least 30 percent of their management positions filled by local employees. Investors wishing to benefit from the priority sector concessions should apply to the Commissioner General of MRA.
In any case, investors should first inquire from MITC regarding the applicable tax incentives.
| Relevant documents | Tax Incentive Handbook_2022 |
| Relevant institutions | Ministry of Finance, Economic Planning and Development Ministry of Industry and Trade Malawi Investment and Trade Centre |
An investor whose activities adversely affect the environment should obtain an Environmental Impact Assessment Certificate that is issued by the Malawi Environment Protection Authority (MEPA). The EIA guidelines are available to facilitate investors’ compliance with Malawi’s EIA requirements.
The EIA process starts with the submission of a project brief by the developers or investors, detailing the project and its environmental and social impacts.
MEPA determines whether a project can be exempted from full impact assessment, or request submission of an environmental and social management plan, or request a full environmental and social impact assessment study. The decision by MEPA depends on the size and type of the project.
Typically, a full environmental impact assessment would be required for projects that by their nature, are likely to have significant environmental, social, and economic impact or require policy change or cause significant public concern, or are located close to or in sensitive environments such as near a freshwater body, protected areas, forests, etc. Investors are therefore advised to acquire land for investment through MITC, as such investment areas are usually pre-assessed, hence avoiding complications in the environmental and social impact assessments.
EIA fees
MEPA issues Gazette notices regarding applicable EIA fees. The categories of fees include:-
Currently, the fees as provided include a scrutiny fee of MK 50,000 (US$68); and fees for review of a full EIA report are around MK 1.0m – 3.0 m (or US$1,362- 4,087) depending upon project cost.
Environmental permits and licences
Depending on the nature of the investment activity, an investor may be required to obtain other environmental permits/ or licenses, in addition to an EIA certificate.
| Relevant documents | Environmental Management Act_2017 National Policy on Climate Change_2017 |
| Relevant institutions | Malawi Environment Protection Authority Environmental Affairs Department, |
| Permit/license | Requirements | Act/regulation | Implementing agency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water permit | To use and/or abstract water, build dams | Water Resources Act | National Water Resources Authority |
| Effluent discharge consent | To control water pollution | Water Pollution Control Regulation | Malawi Environment Protection Authority |
| Air pollution license | To emit any gas or other pollutants into the atmosphere | Environmental Management Act | Malawi Environment Protection Authority |
| Waste license | To handle, store, transport, classify or destroy waste other than domestic waste, or operate a waste disposal site | Environmental Management Act | Malawi Environment Protection Authority |
| Hazardous waste license | To import or export and transport any hazardous waste in Malawi | Environmental Management Act | Malawi Environment Protection Authority |
It has been six and a half years since our joint venture began operations. We had a good experience with the one-stop service provided by MITC. They helped us with investment permits, residence permits, and company registration in a well-coordinated way. The connection with utilities also went smoother thanks to their support. MITC also supported us in obtaining tax and investment incentives, which was helpful for getting things off the ground. The result was that we finished construction within four months after obtaining the necessary permits, and all this despite being in the middle of COVID.
Malawi’s population is estimated at 22.6 million in 2025 of which 46.0 percent is below the age of 15 years. The population growth rate is estimated at 2.59 per cent per annum.
The education system is guided by the National Education Act and a five-year rolling policy and strategic framework known as the National Education Sector Investment Plan. The education system comprises early child development (ECD), primary, secondary, vocational and technical, and tertiary education institutions.
Tertiary education is regulated by the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE). There are 19 public higher education institutions, of which six (6) are public universities. Enrollment in public universities increased from 13,000 in 2014 to 44,797 in 2022, representing over 300 percent increase. There were 25 private accredited universities in the country by 2025. The following are notable universities with number of graduates in 2024.
Malawi offers additional labour force from the technical, entrepreneurial, vocational education and training (TEVET) program, with over 12,000 gradates per year from government technical colleges across the country. Various private and public colleges also provide certificate and diploma levels of training.
Established immediately after Malawi's independence, UNIMA offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in various social and natural sciences and engineering and technology fields. It has five schools:
The university has established collaborations with various other universities and organizations locally and internationally. It also undertakes researches in collaboration with private organizations. The Food Innovation and Technology Hub (FIT-Hub) of UNIMA, for examples, nurtures entrepreneurship and inventions on Agri-food systems and supports product development and processing innovations in Malawi.
Employment is guided by four laws:
The Labour Relations Act, 1996: promotes sound labour relations through the protection and promotion of freedom of association, the encouragement of effective collective bargaining and the promotion of orderly and expeditious dispute settlement, conducive to social justice and economic development.
The Employment Act, 2000: establishes, reinforces, and regulates minimum standards of employment with the purpose of ensuring equity necessary for enhancing industrial peace, accelerate economic growth and social Justice. For instance, it requires employers to set out employee's normal working hours in the employment contract, and defines over time hours for employees, amongst others.
The Workers’ Compensation Act, 2000: provides for compensation for injuries suffered or diseases contracted by workers in the course of their employment or for death resulting from such injuries or diseases; it provides for the establishment and administration of a Workers’ Compensation Fund.
The Occupational Safety, Health and Welfare Act, 1997, makes provision for the regulations of the conditions of employment in workplaces, focusing on the safety, health, and welfare of employees. The legislation mandates employers to provide a safe working environment, including proper machine inspection, accident prevention, and welfare facilities.
| Relevant documents | Employment Act Labour relations Act Workers Compensation Act Occupation Safety, Health and Welfare Acr |
| Relevant institutions | Ministry of Labour |
The table below sets wages typically paid by foreign investors. The work week is 5 days, with a maximum of 8 hours per day.
The Table below shows the indicative monthly wages paid by foreign investors in Malawi*.
| Unit | Value | Year | Comment | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Senior manager | USD | 1500-2600 | 2025 | per month, plus other benefits |
| Middle manager | USD | 1200-1600 | 2025 | per month, plus other benefits |
| Graduate entry | USD | 450-760 | 2025 | Per month |
| skilled Technician | USD | 260-360 | 2025 | Per month |
| Administrative Assistant | USD | 150-260 | 2025 | Per month |
| Unskilled | USD | 87 | 2025 | Per month |
| Relevant institutions | Ministry of Labour |
| Category | MK/month | USD Equivalent/month |
| General workers | 126,000 | 73.40 |
| Domestic Workers | 72,800 | 42.40 |
| SME workers | 105,000 | 61.17 |
| Shop Workers (Large retail outlets) | 150,000 | 87.38 |
| International Truck drivers | 328,300 | 191.24 |
| Relevant institutions | Ministry of Labour |
In terms of statutory benefits, all employers are required under the Employment Act 2000 to provide pension contributions, annual leave, sick leave, and maternity leave as described in the table below.
Other benefits offered to middle and senior management include:
| Type of leave | Period on full pay |
|---|---|
| Annual leave if working 6 days a week | 18 days a year |
| Annual leave if working 5 days a week | 15 days a year |
| Sick leave | According to length of medical certificate |
| Maternity leave | 8 weeks within every three-year period. |
| Employer Pension contribution | 10% of gross pay |
| Relevant documents | Employment Act_2000 |
| Relevant institutions | Ministry of Labour |
Minimum contribution amounts are set out in the table.
The Scheme pays out in the form of pension benefit or death benefit. Members are entitled to receive pension benefits under the following conditions:
| From employer | From employee | |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum contribution | 10% | 5% |
| Relevant documents | Pension Act_2010 |
All investors and non-Malawian workers require permits to conduct business, reside, or work in Malawi. Permits are issued by the office of the Director General for Malawi Immigration and Citizenship Services under the Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security.
The Immigration Specialist in the One Stop Service Center (OSSC) is mandated to facilitate the processing of Business Residence Permits and Temporary Employment Permits for investors. More details can be obtained from MitcSmartconnect. The durations of the approval process for various permits are indicated in the table below.
| Type of permit | Maximum approval time |
|---|---|
| Employment permit | 20 working days |
| Business resident permit | 40 working days |
| Permanent resident permit | 40 working days |
| Student permit | 20 working days |
| Temporary resident permit | 20 working days |
| Extension of visitor permit | 1 working day |
| Relevant institutions | Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security Malawi Investment and Trade Centre |
The abundance of the labour pool in Malawi makes labour costs cheap. Malawian labour is easily trainable at all levels.
The e-visa system that was launched on November 2019 allows foreign nationals to apply for and obtain visas electronically, thereby streamlining the processes and procedures for travellers to Malawi
As of 2024, Malawi has an installed generation capacity of 562.24 MW, with the Electricity Generation Company of Malawi (EGENCO) accounting for approximately 79%, including 390.55 MW of hydropower from the Shire River and 51.4 MW from thermal diesel power plants. The remaining is provided by independent power producers (IPPs) that introduced some diversification into the energy mix through the development of solar photo voltaic (PV) and battery energy storage system (BESS). In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of households that started to use rooftop installations, and solar home systems to meet their energy needs. Malawi has embarked on a campaign to provide solar home systems to one million people in collaboration with the World Bank
Currently, there are two major
public companies in the electricity industry, namely Electricity Generation
Company Malawi Limited (EGENCO), which is responsible for electricity
generation, created following the enactment of the Electricity (Amendment Act
2016), and ESCOM, which retains the electricity transmission and distribution
functions.
The Electricity (Amendment) Act of 2016 provides for private investments in the electricity sector. By 2022, ESCOM had signed Power Purchase Agreements for 328 megawatts with IPPs, excluding EGENCO.
The ESCOM connection charge is MK93,000 (US$53.11), and the connection period is within 14 days. Details of prevalent electricity tariffs can be obtained online.
| Unit | Value | Year | Comment | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Domestic, pre-paid, single phase supply | MK(USD) | 71.35 (0.041) | February 2025 | First 50 kWh unit charge |
| Domestic, post-paid, single phase supply | MK(USD) | 8,000 (4.57) | February 2025 | Fixed charge per month |
| Domestic, post-paid, single phase supply | MK(USD) | 154.85 (0.089) | February 2025 | Unit charge per KWh per month |
| Domestic, pre-paid, three phase supply | MK(USD) | 64.04 (0.036) | October,2016 | Unit charge per kWh per month |
| General, post-paid, three phase supply | MK(USD) | 27,130 (15.49) | February 2025 | Unit charge per kWh per month |
| Maximum demand- Low Voltage supply (large power for industrial users, supplied at three phase supply and metered at 400 volts) | MK(USD) | 117.7 (0.067) | February 2025 | Standard Unit Charge kWh |
| Maximum demand- Low Voltage supply (large power for industrial users, supplied at three phase supply and metered at 400 volts) | MK(USD) | 8,200 (4.68) | February 2025 | One peak charge per KVA based on customer annual declared demand |
| Maximum demand- low voltage supply (large power for industrial users, supplied at three phase supply and metered at 11kv or 33kv | MK(USD) | 112 (0.063) | February 2025 | Standard Unit Charge per kWh |
| Maximum demand- low voltage supply (large power for industrial users, supplied at three phase supply and metered at 11kv or 33kv | MK(USD) | 275.45 (0.157) | February 2025 | On peak unit charge per KWh |
| Special Agriculture, three phase supply | MK(USD) | 79.30 (0.045) | February 2025 | Standard Unit Charge per kWh |
| Relevant documents | Electricity Amendment Act_2016 Independent Power Producers Framework |
| Relevant institutions | ESCOM |
Malawi has vast expanses of water systems. The major ones include: Lake Malawi (28,750 km2),
Lake Malombe (303 km2), Lake Chilwa (683 km2), and Lake Chiuta (130km2).
The country also boasts several small to medium-sized reservoirs, perennial rivers, and groundwater resources; hence, it is a water-abundant country.
The nationwide accessibility to safe water is at 87% according to the Malawi Demographic and Health Survey of 2015/16. Over 90 percent of households in urban areas and over 83 percent of households in rural areas have access to improved water sources.
Institutional Arrangements in the Water Sector.
The Water Resources Act and the Water Works Act provide the legal and regulatory structures, as well as the institutional and organizational framework for water resource management and water services.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Water Development is responsible for policy-making, supervision, and direction of the water sector. The National Water Resources Authority (NWRA) was established under the Water Resources Act of 2013 and is the water sector regulatory authority. There are five Water Boards established under the Water Works Act of 1995, and their roles include water resources development, management, and service delivery.
There are five water boards:
The Lilongwe Water Board currently serves 83 per cent of the population in Lilongwe, with a production capacity of 125,000 cubic meters per day. The Board's customers include domestic, institutional, industrial, and commercial entities. The water is sourced from the Lilongwe River using Kamuzu Dams I and II as reservoirs. The population of Lilongwe was estimated at 1.39 million in 2025 with 4.3 per cent annual growth rate.
Blantyre Water Board (BWB) provides water to about 85 percent of Blantyre City’s population of 1,140,090 million for domestic, institutional, commercial, and industrial purposes, the surrounding areas of Thyolo and Chiradzulu districts covering a total area of 76,000 hectares. The Board's daily water production capacity is 121,000 cubic metres (121 million litres). The main treatment plant produces 96 million litres of water per day. The Board is working on increasing its water production capacity through the Shire River Project and Solar project. As of September 2025, there were 90,000 billed customers.
Northern Region Water Board (NRWB) currently serves a total population of 596,611 people. In October 2025, there were 93,153 metered customers, while the water pipe network was reported at 2,400 km. The Northern Region Water Board (NRWB) has several water production facilities. For example, the Ekwendeni water treatment plant produces 6 million liters per day, while the Chitipa Water Supply Project increased its capacity from 570 cubic metrers to 5,300 cubic metrers per day. An ongoing project at the Mzuzu Water Treatment Plant will increase capacity from its current 21 million litrers per day to 30 million litrers per day.
| Unit | Value | Year | Comment | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LWB First 5,000 litres (Flat rate minimum charge) | MK (USD)/ 1,000 litres | 3,802(2.21) | August 2024 | Household |
| LWB 5,001 to 10,000 litres | MK(USD)/ 1,000 litres | 1,028 (0.60) | August 2024 | Household |
| LWB More than 10,000 litres | MK(USD)/1,000 litres | 1,431(0.83) | August 2024 | Household |
| LWB Pre-paid meters all bands flat rate | MK(USD)/1,000l | 1,431(0.83) | August 2024 | Household |
| BwB The first 10,000 litres per month | MK (USD) | 7.29 (0.004) | March 2024 | Industrial |
| BwB Exceeding 10,000 up to 40,000 litres | MK (USD) | 8.27(0.0049) | March 2024 | Industrial |
| BwB Exceeding 40,000 litres per month | MK(USD) | 9.11(0.0053) | March 2024 | Industrial |
| NRWB Class A: Households with water facilities in homes | MK (USD)/1,000 litres | 2,009 (1.17) | Sept. 2024 | Excluding VAT |
| NRWB Class B: Household with water standpipe only | MK (USD)/1,000 litres | 1,473 (0.86)) | Sept. 2024 | Excluding VAT |
| NRWB Class C: Communal Water Points | MK(USD)/1,000 litres | 691(0.40) | Sept. 2024 | Exclusing VAT |
| NRWB Institutional Customers | MK(USD)/1,000 | 3,226 (1.88) | Septe. 2024 | Exclusing VAT |
| NRWB Commercial Customers | MK(USD)/1,000 litres | 4,572(2.66) | Sept. 2024 | Excluding VAT |
| Relevant institutions | Lilongwe Water Board Lilongwe Water Board Lilongwe Water Board |
Water Connection
The requirements for commercial and industrial water connection include a filled water application form, a business registration certificate, details of the nearest existing water account, and a sketch map of the location. Once the application documentation is submitted at the nearest Water Board Service point, an assessment is done for the water connection required materials. To expedite the process, the Board advises the applicant to buy the set of materials. At Blantyre Water Board, the meter fee was at K39,000 in 2025, and a water connection or first bill is guaranteed within 30 days of application.
Investors are requested to fill and submit a water connection application form together with a copy of the Business Registration or company incorporation certificate, and details of the nearest existing water account holder.
The application should be dropped at the nearest water board service point.
The Water Board arranges for an assessment for water connection.
Following an issuance of an assessment report, the Board prepares a quotation of the materials required to tap water from the water main pipe to the meter point at the business.
The applicant is expected to buy the materials and prepare the excavations at their own cost. When the materials and works are ready, the applicant should notify the Water Board.
The cost of water connection for industrial and commercial sites depends on the distance of the connection and the diameter of the water pipe. The service fees for the inspection, planning and installation in Lilongwe varies between USD 18 and 26 per kilometer as of 2024.
The applicant pays for the meter. At Blantyre Water Board, the meter fee was K39,000 as of September 2025.
The connection period is within 21 days, provided the customer supply the material and undertake the excavation on time.
The ICT sector in Malawi is guided by a combination of laws, policies and regulatory frameworks covering telecommunication, broadcasting, data protection, cyber security, and digital services. The Communications Act of 2016 is the backbone legal framework supported by the Electronic Transactions and Cyber Security Act of 2016, the Access to Information Act of 2017, and the E-government Act of 2021. Other relevant laws include Competition and Fair Trading Act (1998) with respect to anticompetitive practices in ICT; Consumer Protection Act (2003), with respect to ICT service delivery.
The National ICT Policy, 2013, provides a strategic guide for ICT development covering infrastructure, innovation, and digital inclusion. The ICT policy encourages the private sector's participation in ICT development. Other policies are the National Access to Information Policy(2014) and the National Digitalization Policy (2023-2028).
| Unit | Value | Year | Comment | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AirtelPaNet 118GB | USD | 28 | 2025 | Valid for 30 days |
| AirtelPaNet 57 GB | USD | 14 | 2025 | Valid for 30 days |
| AirtelPaNet 8.2 GB | USD | 2.1 | 2025 | Valid for 7 days |
| AirtelPaNet 1.1 GB | USD | 0.3 | 2025 | Valid for 1 day |
| TNMSmart 65GB | USD | 17.5 | 2025 | 30 days validity |
| TNMSmart 30GB | USD | 8.7 | 2025 | 30 days validity |
| TNMSmart 10GB | USD | 2.9 | 2025 | 7 days validity |
| TNMSmart 2,5 GB | USD | 0.9 | 2025 | 1 day validity |
| Relevant documents | Communications Act_2016 Electronic_Transactions_Cybersecurity_Act_2016 National ICT Policy_2013 |
| Relevant institutions | Malawi Communication Regulatory Authority |
The Malawi transport sector is guided by the National Transport Policy which seeks to ensure the provision of a coordinated transport environment that fosters a safe and competitive operation of commercially viable, financially sustainable, and environmentally friendly transport services and enterprises. The scope of the policy covers all modes of transport namely, road, rail, air, and marine. The policy is supported by a comprehensive National Transport Master Plan (2017-2037) and the National Road Safety Strategy.
The major thrust of the policy is the Government of Malawi’s commitment to increasing private sector participation in the provision, management, and operation of transport infrastructure and services. The Master Plan outlines some of the envisaged reforms and investment opportunities in the transport sector.
| Relevant documents | Transport Policy_2015 |
| Relevant institutions | Ministry of Transport and Public Works |
Malawi’s international economic markets are currently accessed through the four key ports of Durban in Republic of South Africa, Beira and Nacala in Mozambique and Dar es Salaam in Tanzania. Malawi also has good road networks that connect the country to its neighbours.
Road transport remains the major mode of transport in Malawi. It handles more than 70% of the internal freight traffic and 99% of passenger traffic. The general condition of the road network has improved, with significant investment for rural road upgrades, reconstruction and major networks.
| Relevant institutions | Ministry of Transport and Public Works |
The railway network in Malawi consists of around 797 km of mainline single cape gauge. The network's axle load capacity ranges from 15 to 20.5 tones. Upon an upgrade, the 101km network between Nkaya and Nayuchi has improved operations, train speed and frequencies. The network covers the the route from the coal mines at Moatize in Mozambique to Nacala on the coast, integrating Malawi with regional and internal trade networks. Port of Nacala handles exports like sugar, tobacco, and cotton from Malawi and imports like fertilizer and general cargo.
The government is investing in rehabilitating and constructing new lines, such as the 72 Km line from Marka to Bangula, to improve connectivity to the coast.
| Relevant documents | Railways Act_1907 |
| Relevant institutions | Ministry of Transport and Public Works |
Malawi’s inland water transport system comprises Lake Malawi and Shire River, and Lake Malombe and Lake Chilwa. Plans are underway to develop the Shire-Zambezi inland water corridor. Lake Malawi is 597 kilometres long and has four major ports as designated under the Inland Waters Shipping Act. The ports are Monkey Bay in Mangochi, Chipoka in Salima, Nkhotakota and Chilumba in Karonga. The ports are managed by the Malawi Ports Company under a 35-year concession agreement signed in 2012.
| Relevant documents | Inland Waters Shipping Act_1985 |
The aviation infrastructure consists of two international airports, namely, Kamuzu International Airport in Lilongwe and Bakili Muluzi International Airport in Blantyre, and four domestic airports with paved runways at Likoma, Karonga, Mzuzu, and Club Makokola in Mangochi.
Malawian Airlines is the national carrier, and it serves regional routes from Lilongwe and Blantyre. Malawi, on 20 February 2025, signed the Solemn Commitment during the 38th African Union Summit and also became the 38th member to join Africa's Single Air Transport Market (SAATM), a project of the African Union to create a single market for air transport in an effort to liberalize air travel and promote connectivity in Africa and beyond.
As of September 2025, Malawi is primarily served by Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways and Malawian Airlines (a joint venture between the Government of Malawi and Ethiopian Airlines), Malawi's connection to international destinations passes through the regional hubs in Addis Ababa and Nairoobi.
| Relevant documents | Civil Aviation Act_2017 |
The following are the transport rates for international and local routes by road and rail. Import-export via rail through port of Nacala and via port of Beira in Mozambique are the most cost efficient option.
| Unit | Value | Year | Comment | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beira to Lilongwe | USD/TEU | 2325 | 2022 | Road - import |
| Beira to Blantyre | USD/TEU | 2025 | 2022 | Road - import |
| Lilongwe to Beira | USD/TEU | 1325 | 2022 | Road - export |
| Blantyre to Beira | USD/TEU | 1175 | 2022 | Road - export |
| Dar es Salaam to Lilongwe | USD/TEU | 3205 | 2022 | Road - import |
| Dar es Salaam to Blantyre | USD/TEU | 3305 | 2022 | Road - import |
| Lilongwe to Dar es Salaam | USD/TEU | 2420 | 2022 | Road - export |
| Blantyre to Dar es Salaam | USD/TEU | 2640 | 2022 | Road - export |
| Durban to Lilongwe | USD/TEU | 4450 | 2022 | Road - import |
| Durban to Blantyre | USD/TEU | 4350 | 2022 | Road - import |
| Lilongwe to Durban | USD/TEU | 2900 | 2022 | Road - export |
| Blantyre to Durban | USD/TEU | 2200 | 2022 | Road - export |
| Nacala to Lilongwe | USD/TEU | 1480 | 2022 | Road - import |
| Nacala to Blantyre | USD/TEU | 2670 | 2022 | Road - import |
| Lilongwe to Nacala | USD/TEU | 1140 | 2022 | Road - export |
| Blantyre to Nacala | USD/TEU | 1270 | 2022 | Road - export |
| Nacala to Lilongwe | USD/TEU | 1760 | 2022 | Rail - import |
| Nacala to Blantyre | USD/TEU | 1480 | 2022 | Rail - import |
| Lilongwe to Nacala | USD/TEU | 1340 | 2022 | Rail - export |
| Blantyre to Nacala | USD/TEU | 1140 | 2022 | Rail - export |
| Relevant institutions | Ministry of Transport and Public Works |
Investors appreciate the efforts to improve the investment environment.
However, electricity blackouts which characterize the supply of electricity energy was cited as the most constraint to private sector investment, as it either raises costs of production through investments in gen sets or simply derails production activities. In addition, the poor conditions of the most of the road, rail and airport, are a hindrance to the private sector operations. This hinders investments in several other sectors.
The poor access to ICT services is also negatively affecting the investments in several other sectors of the economy including banking and registration services.
Malawi has three categories of land, namely:
Most of the land in Malawi is under customary possession; however, the Land Act of 2016, as amended in 2022, has provisions of processes and modalities to allocate land to investors through the Malawi Investment and Trade Centre. Investors who require land should consult the MITC regarding their land requirements.
The Real Estate Management Act, 2024, provides a framework for real estate development and transactions. It established the Real Estate Agency Council with the power to regulate and exercise oversight over developers, agents, and administer standards.
Malawi's Resettlement Policy Framework provides the procedures for the acquisition of land by investors and compensation if an investment project necessitates the relocation of communities from their customary land.
| Relevant documents | Land Act_2016 Phyiscal Planning_Act_2016 Customary land Act amendment Land act amendment 2022 Real Estate Management Act |
| Relevant institutions | Ministry of Land, Housing and Urban Development |
A holder of an investment certificate under the Investment and Export Promotion Act may apply for a sub-lease of land from the Malawi Investment and Trade Centre. Investors are advised to contact MITC's One Stop Service Centre for land identification. The Land Act of 2016, as amended in 2022, outlines the conditions and procedures for land acquisition by investors. These are as follows:
Where the land identified is customary, the District Council will undertake the consultation and resettlement or compensation plan. The Evaluation report on the cost of acquisition will be shared with the investor. Once the transaction with the customary land owners is finalized, the Ministry of Land issues the lease to MITC, and MITC transfers the lease to the investor.
Land Dispute Settlement
In case of a dispute involving customary land, the issue is first adjudicated by the Customary Land Tribunal, subject to the District Land Tribunal, and the Central Land Tribunal (at the national level), and final appeal to the High Court of Malawi.
All other land disputes are handled through the regular court procedures for commercial disputes.
| Relevant documents | National Land Policy_2002 Investment and Export Regulation certificate_2025 |
| Relevant institutions | Ministry of Land, Housing and Urban Development Malawi Investment and Trade Centre |
| Unit | Value | Year | Comment | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Residential land | US$ | 89,162 | 2025 | Per ha per year |
| Industrial rail serviced land | US$ | 1,700 | 2025 | Per ha per year |
| Industrial land | US$ | 6,520 | 2025 | Per ha per year |
| Commercial city centre land | US$ | 89,552 | 2025 | Per ha per year |
| Agriculture land | US$ | 8,709 | 2025 | Per ha per year |
| Institutional | US$ | 6,520 | 2025 | Per ha per year |
| Relevant institutions | Ministry of Land, Housing and Urban Development |
An investor who has acquired land and requires a construction permit needs to take the following steps:
| eRegulations Links | Construction regulations |
| Relevant documents | National Construction Industry Act_2014 |
| Relevant institutions | National Construction Industry Council |
The Export Processing Zones (EPZs) regime was established to attract export-oriented industries by offering them especially favorable investment incentives as compared to the remainder of the manufacturing sector in the country.
The Export Processing Zones Act came into force in 1995. All companies engaged exclusively in manufacture for export may apply for EPZ status, as the Government accords EPZ status only to firms (foreign or domestic) that produce exclusively for export.
There are no specific zones dedicated to export processing in Malawi; rather, it is firms that are designated the status of EPZs and are located in areas of choice and convenience to the investor. The Ministry of Industry and Trade administers the Export Processing Zones Regime in Malawi, assisted by the EPZ Monitoring and Evaluation Committee as stipulated in the Act.
An Export Enterprise Certificate is valid for a period of five years and may, thereafter, be renewed for successive periods of two years, and companies can choose to graduate or not from the scheme. The law requires all exporters to repatriate back to Malawi 100 percent of export proceeds and register the same with the Reserve Bank of Malawi within 6 months of export.
Traditional industries such as tobacco, tea, coffee, and cotton are excluded from the EPZ Regime. Currently, the firms operating under the EPZ status are in three categories of export products, namely, (i) natural rubber and wood products; (ii) macadamia and coffee; and (iii) textiles.
| Relevant documents | Export Processing Zones Act_1995 |
| Relevant institutions | Ministry of Industry and Trade Malawi Investment and Trade Centre |
The Special Economic Zones Act provides for a registered entity to develop a special economic zone. Such a zone can be operated under three forms:-
The Government, through the Malawi Investment and Trade Centre, has identified six potential industrial areas with a total of 875.5 hectares for the development of industrial sites and Special Economic Zones, with Public-Private-Partnership as an implementation option.
Special Economic Zones are managed under the Special Economic Zones Act of 2025, which provides for designating geographical areas to operate under economic and tax regimes that are more liberal than a county's typical economic laws. The SEZ Act was assented to in January 2024 and came into force in March 2024.
Malawi's SEZs offer investment opportunities in agriculture and food zone, business services park, dry port, export promotion zone, ICT park, industrial park, tourist and recreational zones. More information can be obtained from the MitcSmartConnect Portal.
| No | Location | Size (Hectares) | Year of Establishment | Specialization | Project Stage |
| 1 | Bangula | 150.0 | 2021 | Light and heavy | Development |
| 2 | Chigumula | 22.7 | 2018 | Light | Development |
| 3 | Dunduzu | 72.0 | 2019 | Light | Development |
| 4 | Magwero | 417.0 | 2019 | Industrial hub | Development |
| 5 | Matindi | 128.0 | 2019 | Industrial hub | Development |
| 6 | Ngabu | 85.0 | 2022 | Agr-processing | Development |
| Relevant documents | Special Economic Zone_Act_2024 |
| Relevant institutions | Malawi Investment and Trade Centre |
Generally, there are no serious complaints against environment impact assessment requirements.
Concerns have been raised regarding investors access to customary land for investment purposes, as investors have to deal with rural communities on their own, which is sometimes costly. However, with the establishment of OSSC at Malawi Investment and Trade Centre (MITC) and the new Land Act promising to identify and allocate land to investors through MITC such concerns shall shortly be a thing of the past.
The Malawi tax laws (Taxation Act and VAT Act) require owners of businesses and companies to register for tax purposes with the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) regardless of the size, nature, or location of the business. Applicants for tax registration should provide relevant documentation: Certificate of incorporation and Articles of Association in the case of limited companies, including valid ID of at least one director.
The MRA introduced Msonkho online, a platform that enables investors to make tax transactions online, including registering for taxes, filing tax returns, and paying tax liabilities. Tax payers should create an account on Msonkho online in order to transact with MRA.
Once a company is duly registered for tax, the MRA issues a Taxpayer Identification Number (TPIN) for the company. The company TPIN should be used in all correspondence with the Authority.
MRA has also introduced innovative platforms aimed at enhancing electronic payment of tax and verification of MRA documentation. These include requiring investors to use Electronic Fiscal Device (EFD) facilities by all registered Value Added Tax (VAT) operators; use of ASYCUDA World, and cargo scanners, among others. https://www.mra.mw/press-releases/roll-out-of-electronic-invoicing-system. From August 2025, VAT operators are encouraged to migrate to the Electronic Invoicing System (EIS) that will replace EFD by November 2025.
MRA follows the Government fiscal year which runs from 1st April to 30th March. However, there is flexibility because an investor can notify the Authority on its financial year.
The following are the specific key tax regimes.
Summary of the Key Taxes
| Tax | Rate | Who is liable | Notes |
| Corporate Income Tax (CIT) | 30 % for resident companies; | companies | Paid annually; Filed with MRA |
| Personal Income Tax (PIT) | Progressive 0% up to K150,000 30% on the excess of K150,000 | Individuals | Paid monthly or annually; Filed with MRA |
| PAYE | 0% up to K150,000 25% from K150,001 to K500,000; 30% from K500,001 to K2,550,000 35% above K2,550,000 | Employers deduct from employees' salaries | Paid weekly, fortnightly or monthly; Remit to MRA |
| Presumptive Tax | K0 to K225,000, depending on turnover | Small businesses with a turnover of less than or equal to K12.5 million | Paid quarterly or annually; Register at the MRA office |
| Value Added Tax (VAT) | 16.5% | Suppliers of goods, services | Paid monthly, file VAT returns with MRA |
| Dividend Tax | 10% | Shareholders receiving dividends | Deducted at source; Remit to MRA |
| Domestic Excise Duty | 10% to 200% depending on product type | Producers/ importers of excisable goods | Paid monthly; File returns with MRA |
| Withholding Tax (WHT) | 3% to 20 % (Rates are specified in the 14th Schedule to the Taxation Act) | Any payer making payments subject to WHT | Generate a certificate in Msonkho Online; Remit within 14 days after the month-end |
| Non-Resident Tax (NRT) | 10% to 15% depending on payment type | Non-residents earning income in Malawi | Deduct at source; Remit within 14 days after month-end |
| Advance Income Tax | 10% of Customs Value for Duty Purposes (VDP) | Importers of commercial goods | Refund possible after year-end; Remit at MR |
| Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) | 30% | Employers (except government) | Paid quarterly; Remit via Msonkho Online or MRA office |
| Non Tax Revenue/ Levy | Rate | Who is liable |
| Mineral royalties | 5% of gross value | Mineral extractors |
| Tevet levy | 1% of payroll | Employers |
| Relevant documents | |
| Relevant institutions | Malawi Revenue Authority |
All companies are subject to tax on Malawi-source income. Investment income of pension funds is also subject to the corporate tax rate as set out below
| Category | Tax rate (%) |
|---|---|
| Standard rate | 30 |
| Relevant documents | New Income Tax Rates_2022 |
| Relevant institutions | Malawi Revenue Authority |
Personal Income Tax (PIT) applies to individuals earning income other than from employment. Individuals in business pay taxes annually based on their accounting period, which they determine, and submit their accounts to the Malawi Revenue Authority within 180 days from the end of that period.
| Tax Band(Chargeable Income) | Rate |
|---|---|
| Up to K150,000 | 0% |
| On the excess of K350,000 | 30% |
| Relevant institutions | Malawi Revenue Authority |
Pay As You Earn (PAYE) is a system for collecting income tax from employees on their earnings. Employers are required to deduct tax from employees' salaries or wages every time they make a payment, whether weekly, fortnightly, or monthly, and remit amounts to MRA.
The tax is calculated using approved PAYE rates and is considered a final tax for employees on their earnings. Employers must submit PAYE returns and remit the tax to MRA within 14 days after the end of each month. Payment and submission can be done through Msonkho online or at the nearest MRA Domestic Taxes office.
All taxpayers, whether in business or employment, can submit returns and make payments through Msonkho online.
| Tax Bracket | Rate |
|---|---|
| Below MK 150,000 | 0% |
| K150,001 to K500,000 | 25% |
| MK500,001 to K2,550,000 | 30% |
| Above K2,550,000 | 35% |
VAT is collected by registered businesses at all points in the chain of production and distribution, including manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers and service providers. It is also charged on imported goods and services.
The following are the guidelines on Value Added Tax (VAT) eligibility, registration process, and remittance:
| Relevant documents | Malawi VAT Registration Application form |
| Relevant institutions | Malawi Revenue Authority |
Property rates, administered by local governments, are chargeable on land and improvement values. Local governments undertake periodic property assessment to determine property rates. Invoices are sent to rate payers twice a year.
| Type of Property | Rate in the Kwacha | USD Equivalent |
| Commercial | 50 tambala | 0.000286 |
| Industrial | 40 tambala | 0.000228 |
| Residential | 30 tambala | 0.000171 |
| Traditional | 20 tambala | 0.000114 |
| Relevant documents | Lilongwe City Council PR LGA_1998 |
There are two components of Excise Tax : the Import Excise, which is levied on certain importations and is administered by the Customs Division, and the Domestic Excise, which is levied on certain locally manufactured products and services and is administered by the Domestic Taxes Division.
The basis of charging domestic excise tax for locally manufactured products is the price, inclusive of VAT and duty other than Excise at the time and place of delivery from the premises of the license holder or by the licensed persons to a buyer independent of him.
The applicable price for imported goods includes any customs payable other than Excise and VAT.
Details of the tax registration process, remittance, and prevailing excise tax rates are as follows:
The following are the prevailing domestic excise tax rates:
| Commodity /item | Rate |
|---|---|
| Spirits | 250 percent of the cost of production |
| Opaque beer | 30 percent of the cost of production |
| Clear beer | 90 percent of the cost of production |
| Bottled water | 10 percent of the cost of production |
| Air time | 10 percent of the sales |
| Gaming | 10 percent of the sales |
| Audio tapes | 20 percent of the cost of production |
| Cigarettes | 30 USD per 1,000 cigarettes |
| eRegulations Links | Domestic Excise Taxes |
Excise Tax Stamps are physical or digital seals affixed to excisable products to confirm that the applicable excise tax has been paid. These tax stamps help to curb smuggling, improve revenue collection, and protect consumers from counterfeit and hazardous products. The list of products requiring affixation of tax stamps is provided in the First Schedule of the Customs and Excise ( Tax Stamps) Regulations and includes a variety of including cigarettes, spirits, beer, bottled water, lotions, and glycerin, among others.
Stamp fees range from MWK12 to MWK32 per unit, depending on the product type. Manufacturers and importers must ensure that all excisable products bear valid stamps before distribution.
Payments and submissions of stamp-related returns can be made through the Msonkho Online or at any MRA Domestic Taxes office.
Tax stamps must be applied for at least 45 days prior to importation or 72 hours in case of case of small businesses.
| Relevant documents | Tax Stamp Regulations_2024 |
| Relevant institutions | Malawi Revenue Authority |
Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) is tax paid on the taxable values of fringe benefits being provided by an employer to an employee.
The rate for FBT is 30 percent and all employers except the government are liable to FBT.
To register, an employer fills Form FBT 1 and gets Form FBT 2 for remittance, and registration should be done 14 days after starting to give fringe benefits to employees.
Fringe Benefit Tax is paid quarterly and is due within 14 days from the end of each quarter.
FBT should be remitted to any MRA Domestic Taxes office nearer to the taxpayer or through Msonkho online.
| FBT | Rate |
|---|---|
| Fringe Benefit Taxable value | 30% |
| Relevant institutions | Malawi Revenue Authority |
Customs duty refers to tax payable on imported goods, and the rates range from zero is at 30% of the import value. The applicable rate depends on the HS code category and the applicable preferential rules of origin. When one imports goods from a country or countries that are a party to a bilateral, regional or global trade agreement with Malawi, depending on the terms of the agreement, the goods may enjoy preferential rates of duty.
The preferential duty rates will not apply where the conditions or terms of the agreement are not met in full, such as when an importer is not able to produce a valid Certificate of Origin. Some goods require an import or export permit. More details about applicable customs tariffs can be obtained from the MRA's tariff schedule available on the website.
Withholding Tax is an advance payment of income tax that is deducted from specified payments. A person making the payment deducts the withholding tax.
Any individual, partnership, trust, association, company, club, statutory body, council, Government ministry or department or any religious organization, as long as it makes payments to any person, is eligible to register with MRA and operate Withholding Tax.
Withholding tax is deducted using specified rates, according to the 14th Schedule to the Taxation Act, as follows:
| Nature of payment | Rate |
|---|---|
| Royalties | 20% |
| Rent | 15% |
| Food stuff Supplies to traders and institutions; | 3% |
| other Supplies to traders and institutions; | 3% |
| Commission | 20% |
| Carriage and haulage | 10% |
| Contractors/subcontractors | 4% |
| Public entertainment | 20% |
| Casual labour exceeding K15,000(US$20.4) | 20% |
| services | 20% |
| Bank interest exceeding K10, 000 (US$13.6) | 20% |
| Fees | 10% |
| Tobacco sales | 3% |
| Relevant documents | Brochure_WT_2024 |
| Relevant institutions | Malawi Revenue Authority |
The Advance Income Tax (AIT) is payable on the importation of goods for commercial purposes, specifically goods imported for sale or use in business activities. Goods for personal use are determined based on the nature and quantity of the goods, as well as the frequency of importation.
AIT is charged at 10 percent of the Customs Value for Duty purposes (VDP) at the port of entry into Malawi. Where the total AIT paid exceeds the final tax liability for the year, a tax refund may be claimed by the importer at the end of the year by submitting an annual income tax return together with supporting customs documentation.
Businesses that are tax compliant may be exempted upon presentation of a valid Withholding Tax Exemption Certificate(WTEC) or a Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC). Imports by government entities and persons exempt under the Taxation Act are not subject to AIT.
| Relevant institutions | Malawi Revenue Authority |
Presumptive Tax is an advance payment of income tax for small businesses with an annual turnover of up to K12.5 million. Presumptive Tax has replaced the Turnover Tax (TOT) and simplifies tax compliance by allowing taxpayers to know their annual tax liability without keeping books of accounts. Payments can be quarterly or once a year.
Presumptive Tax does not apply to rental income, management, or professional fees, income of incorporated companies, or income already subject to final Withholding Tax. The registration is done through Domestic Tax offices..
The Malawi Revenue Authority began collecting royalties on 1st April 2024 under the amended Mines and Minerals Act. These royalties apply to all entities engaged in the extraction of minerals within Malawi, including both local and international companies. Government entities and certain operators under specific agreements are exempt.
The standard rate is 5% of the gross value of minerals extracted. Additional rates may apply depending on the type of minerals and volume extracted.
| eRegulations Links | Mineral Royalties |
Non-Resident Tax (NRT) is a final withholding tax applied to income earned by non-residents from sources within Malawi. Non-residents include individuals, partnerships, trusts, associations, companies, clubs, statutory bodies, councils, government ministries or departments, and religious organizations that are not registered for tax purposes in Malawi.
NRT is deducted at the time of payment and is withheld at specified rates according to the Fourteenth Schedule of the Taxation Act. The rates vary depending on the nature of the payment, including dividends, interest, royalties, fees, and rent. For example, dividends are subject to a 10% withholding tax while interest, royalties, fees and rent are subject to 15% withholfing tax,
Payments subject to NRT must be remitted to the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) within 14 days from the end of the month during which deduction was made. Remittances can be made at any MRA Domestic Taxes Office or through Msonkho Online.
A Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC) is a confirmation from MRA that a taxpayer has no outstanding taxes on the date of issue. A TCC can cover all taxes or specific taxes, depending on the transaction, and is required for transactions listed in the Fifteenth Schedule of the Taxation Act, including the transfer of land and buildings, renewal of commercial vehicle fitness certificates, renewal of residence or employment permits, change of company ownership, and renewal of telecommunication licenses.
Applications for a TCC must be made in writing by the taxpayer or their representative, stating the reason for the request. A TCC is issued only if all income tax returns have been submitted and there are no outstanding taxes. If a taxpayer's tax affairs are not in order, the application will not be successful. The taxpayer may reapply once all returns are submitted and outstanding taxes are cleared. Applications can be submitted at any MRA Domestic Taxes Office or through Msonkho online.
Applying for a Withholding Tax Exemption Certificate
A Withholding Tax Exemption Certificate (WHTEC) is a confirmation from MRA that a taxpayer is exempt from withholding tax on specific payments. The taxpayer is required to file a return of income at the end of the accounting period.
A WHTEC is issued only if the applicant has filed all due filed returns for all years since commencement of business, paid all outstanding taxes, including VAT and customs duties, and, if directed, undergone a tax audit. The applicant must also comply with any special or general directions set by the Commissioner General.
A WHITEC does not apply to payments for royalties, rent, fees, commissions, contractors and subcontractors or bank interest. Applications can be submitted at any MRA Domestic Taxes Office or through Msonkho online.
| eRegulations Links | Withholding Tax |
| Relevant institutions | Malawi Revenue Authority |
Double Taxation Agreements are tax treaties that serve as essential frameworks to guide how countries manage taxation on cross-border income, such as dividends, interest, and royalties. The countries that have established tax treaties with Malawi include United Kingdom (1956), South Africa (1971). Norway (2009) and Seychelles (2012).
| Relevant institutions | Ministry of Finance, Economic Planning and Development Ministry of Industry and Trade |
Besides PAYE, investors must pay a 1% of the basic annual payroll to TEVET through MRA to support technical, entrepreneurial and vocational education that is undertaken by the Technical, Entrepreneurial and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TEVETA).
The TEVET levy is payable in one year in respect of payroll records for previous year.
To register for TEVET levy
Investors were positive about the fiscal regime. With the establishment of the Large Taxpayer Officer (LTO) within MRA, big investors appreciate the professional approach being taken by the tax collecting body, unlike in the past. The automation of application, declaration, and payment of tax processes has resulted in reduced time for compliance for investors.
An investor in the agriculture sector "We received import duty and VAT exemptions for capital goods and inputs like seeds and fertilizer. The duty waiver was comprehensive and processed efficiently. Once the initial exemptions were approved, the MRA cleared all our follow-up duty-free import requests without delay".
Investors' rights are protected by the Constitution of Malawi (1994, as amended 2017) and various specialized laws. These includes:
The High Court of Malawi has a specialized Commercial division located in Lilongwe and Blantyre. The Court plays a crucial role in Malawi's legal system, handling a wide range of commercial disputes, enforcing contracts and investors' rights.
International Agreements and Regional Economic Communities
Malawi is a party to several bilateral, regional and multilateral investment agreements.
a) Regional Economic Communities (RECs)
At regional and continental level, Malawi is a member of
b) International Investment Guarantees and Agreements
Malawi is a member and signatory to the following:
c) Bilateral Investment and Trade Treaties (BITs)
As of August 2025, Malawi had five signed BITs. The counterparts include Malaysia (1996), Zimbabwe (2003), Italy (2003), the Netherlands (2003), and Brazil (2015).
Malawi has five Bilateral Trade Agreements: South Africa (1991), Zimbabwe (2006), Mozambique (2005), China (2008), and a customs agreement with Botswana( 1956).
The power and procedure for compensation are governed by the constitution and other related legislation like the 1965 Land Act and the 2016 Customary Land Act.
Malawi’s constitution guarantees that no person shall be arbitrarily deprived of property. Expropriation is allowed only when it is done for public utility and only when there has been adequate notification and appropriate compensation. There is always the right to appear against any aspect of the expropriation or amount of compensation. The likelihood of direct expropriations has been minimized since the repeal of the Forfeiture Act in 1992.
The constitution further gives powers to the courts of law to “award compensation to any person whose rights or freedoms have been unlawfully denied or violated where it considers it to be appropriate in the circumstances of a particular case”.
Measures that carry expropriation effects are occasionally imposed, and in that event of enforcement, they apply to both local and foreign investors.
| Relevant institutions | Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, |
There are no restrictions on remittance of foreign investment funds (including investment capital, profits repatriation, repayments for international loans and lease repayments) as long as the capital and loans were obtained from foreign sources and registered with the Reserve Bank of Malawi (RBM) (www.rbm.mw ). However, there are import financing verification requirements for importers to present proof of bank Telegraphic Transfers (TTs)
The terms and conditions of international loans, management contracts, licensing and royalty arrangements, and similar transfers require initial RBM approval.
| Relevant documents | Exchange Control Act_1984 Exchange Control Regulations amendment 2025 |
| Relevant institutions | Reserve Bank of Malawi |
As a member of the WTO Agreement with a component on trade-related aspects of intellectual property rights (TRIPS), Malawi has the policy and legal framework to protect intellectual property. The National Intellectual Property policy was launched in 2019 and seeks to foster innovation and economic growth by protecting intellectual property rights. Relevant legislation includes the acts on Copyrights, Trademarks, Registered designs and Patents, Property protection of genetic engineering products, particularly GM crop varieties, and creative works, amongst others.
Malawi is a member of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and its substantive treaties on patents, trademarks, designs, genetic resources, and copyright. Malawi participates under the WIPO Patent Cooperation Treaty and the Madrid Protocol Relating to the Madrid Agreement Concerning the International Registration of Marks. These treaties allow the international filing of patents and trademarks. Malawi is also a member of the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO) and participates in the regional filing systems for patents, industrial designs, and trademarks. The participation of Malawi in international and regional IP rights filing/applications systems makes Malawi easier to acquire IP rights for foreign investors.
In July 2025, Malawi approved legislation that establishes the Companies, Registration and Intellectual Property Centre. Once operational, the Centre will be responsible for registering companies, businesses, and trusts and managing industrial property rights, such as patents, trademarks and designs.
The Copyright Amendment Act of 2025 assigns the Registrar General of Malawi as the registrar of copyright. In addition, the Copyright Society of Malawi (COSOMA) is responsible for collective management of rights under the supervision of the Registrar General.
The High Court of Malawi has jurisdiction over intellectual property rights disputes and enforcement. The Malawi Revenue Authority is responsible for the seizure of trademark, return of trademark counterfeiting, and copyright piracy goods.
Some of the legal and regulatory frameworks on intellectual property rights in Malawi include:
Laws
Regulations
The Competition and Fair Trading Act protects investors from anti-competitive business practices. The Act prohibits conducts that prevent, restrict and distort competition in the market and, therefore, guarantees investors freedom to do business without unnecessary market impediments.
The Act is enforced by the Competition and Fair Trading Commission (CFTC) which is an autonomous body with adjudicative powers. Decision of the CFTC may be appealed to the High Court.
Investors are also guaranteed protection from cross border anti-competitive business practices through the COMESA Competition Regulations, which regulate conducts that have effect in two or more countries within the COMESA region.
The CFTC is also the authority for regulating mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in Malawi. According to regulations on Thresholds for Proposed Mergers, a notice and prior approval from CFTC is required before implementing a merger transaction if the combined parties' value of annual turnover or combined value of asses exceeds USD5.7 million or when the annual turnover of a target undertaking exceeds USD2.8 million.
Malawi hosts the COMESA Competition Commission which is tasked to monitor and investigate anti-competitive practices within the common market and mediate disputes among member states concerning anti-competitive practices.
| eRegulations Links | Competition legislations |
| Relevant documents | Competition and Fair-Trading Act_2024 |
| Relevant institutions | Competition and Fair Trading Commission |
Malawi has a sound arrangement for protection of creditors and investors. The Insolvency Act of 2016 encourages alternatives to bankruptcy such as receivership and reorganization and gives secured creditors (rank-ordered based upon investment registration dates), priority over other creditors. The insolvency act guarantees non-discrimination against foreign creditors. Known foreign creditors receive notice of insolvency proceedings just as local creditors do. The High Court of Malawi oversees insolvency proceedings and enforces creditors' rights, including that of foreign creditors.
| Relevant documents | Insolvency Act_2016 Insolvency_regulations_2017 |
| Relevant institutions | High Court Commercial Division Department of Registrar General |
The legal system is established in the Malawi Constitution based on British common law system. The Attorney General, Director of Public Prosecution, Chief Justice, Supreme Court of Appeal judges, High Court judges, and magistrates administer justice in the country.
| Relevant institutions | Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, High Court Commercial Division High Court Commercial Division(Lilongwe) |
Malawi employs both formal and informal dispute resolution mechanism, ranging from traditional court ligation to alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods like arbitration, mediation and negotiation. Both foreign and domestic investors have equal access to Malawi's legal system, which functions well and is unbiased.
Court Litigation : Malawi has a Commercial Court established in 2007, being the Commercial Division of the High Court of Malawi. The division handles matters of commercial significance from or related to business or commercial relationships, whether contractual or not. Its establishment has significantly reduced the time it takes to conclude commercial cases, and there are efforts to reduce the time further.
Mediation: There is an established mediation process to promote agreements between parties in disputes before court proceedings start. The court system in Malawi accepts and enforces foreign court judgments that are registered locally in accordance with established legal procedure. In addition, there are reciprocal agreements among Commonwealth countries to enforce judgments without this registration obligation.
Arbitration - Malawi has a domestic arbitration regime governed by the Arbitration Act of 1967, and there are on-going efforts to update the legislation. The Malawi Confederation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (MCCCI) and the Malawi Law Society set up the Malawi International Arbitration Centre (MIAC) in September 2023 to provide a neutral, independent, and private sector-led facility dedicated to the resolution of commercial, investment, and other disputes through arbitration, mediation and similar processes,
All bankruptcies are governed by the courts under the provision of the consolidated Insolvency Act of 2016. It is based mostly on the Mauritius Insolvency Act 2009, partly the English Insolvency Act 1986 and the cross-border provisions on the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) Model Law on Cross-Border Insolvency, and as such, it has taken after a number of internationally accepted best practices in corporate insolvency.
Malawi is a member of international frameworks that protect investments including:
Investors
appreciate the protection provided by the legal and regulatory frameworks to
their investments. However, concerns
were raised on the delays in the processes approving mergers and acquisitions. The approval process at times involves
requiring the investors appearing before different committees which ask the
same questions the investors have already provided in the previous forum.
The Malawi economy is set to attain strong economic growth in the medium term, leveraging the recovery of the agriculture sector after posting dismal outturn between 2022 and 2024 owing to external shocks, unfavorable weather conditions, and foreign exchange shortages. The economy is projected to grow by 2.6 percent of GDP in 2026, which is a slight improvement from 1.8 percent recorded in 2024 and 2.0 percent anticipated in 2025.
The agriculture sector in Malawi is the mainstay of the economy, contributing close to 22.0 per cent of the national gross domestic product (GDP) and accounting for 60 percent of exports, and 85 percent of employment. There is a strong political commitment to economic diversification and macroeconomic stability.
The government is implementing the Malawi Vision 2063, which aims to transform Malawi into a wealth, self-reliant, industrialized upper-middle-income country, focusing on agriculture commercialization, industrialization, and urbanization. The key growth sectors are agriculture, tourism, mining, energy, and industry.
MITC has a list of available investment opportunities on its portal, the MITCSmartConnect.
| Relevant institutions | Malawi Investment and Trade Centre |
The key sectors of the Malawi economy include: agriculture, forestry, and fishery (28 percent); wholesale and retail trade (16 percent); manufacturing (9 percent); real estate activities (7.6 percent); financial and insurance services (5 percent), among others.
Trade Agreements
Malawi is party to several bilateral, regional, and multilateral trade agreements with a view to benefiting from wider market access, fostering competition and innovation, and better integration into the global economy.
For more information on the export market and procedures, visit Malawi Trade Portal
| Relevant documents | Export Requirements |
| Relevant institutions | Ministry of Industry and Trade Malawi Revenue Authority Malawi Investment and Trade Centre |
The Taxation Act provides for a range of incentive packages, including annual allowances, initial allowances, investment allowances, transport allowances, export allowances, training allowance, and mining allowance. There are general and specific incentives.
Annual allowances
Annual allowances are available for qualifying assets on a declining balance basis at the following rates:
Goods/ Service Rates
(i) Industrial buildings, farm improvements & railway lines 5%
(ii) Farm fencing 10%
(iii) Heavy machinery and installations 15%
(v) Light machinery 10%
(vi) Trucks and tractors 33.33%
(vii) Light commercial vehicles 25%
(viii) Motor vehicles 20%
(ix) Commercial Buildings costing more than K100 million 2.5%
Initial allowances
Initial allowances are available on capital expenditure during the year of acquisition at the following Rates:
Goods/ Services Rates(i) Industrial buildings, improvements, railway line 10%
(ii) Farm fencing 33.33%
(iii) Machinery 20%
(iv) Automobiles forming part of a commercial hire fleet 20%
Investment allowances
Investment Allowance shall be given to a taxpayer who is also a manufacturer equal to 100% of the cost of new and unused (Industrial buildings) plant or machinery, and equal to 40% of the cost of used industrial buildings and plant or machinery.
Transport allowance
An additional allowance may be granted of 25 percent of the international transport costs incurred by a taxpayer for his exports, whether produced by manufacturing in bond or otherwise, but other than exports of products specified in the Schedule to the Export Incentives (Exclusion) Order made under the Export Incentives Act.
Export allowance
A registered exporter shall, in every financial year during which he exports products of Malawi, be entitled to an income tax allowance of 25 percent of his taxable income derived from his export sales.
A person carrying on mining operations incurs mining expenditure in any year of assessment shall be entitled to an allowance equal to 100 percent of such expenditure in the first year of assessment.
Temporary Importation of Goods
Temporary imported goods are those goods that come to Malawi for a short period (for a maximum of 30 days) and are subsequently re-exported within the specified period.
The goods that may be imported temporarily include vehicles and any other goods. For the vehicles, they are imported temporarily using a document known as the “Temporary Importation Permit (TIP).”
Extensions of the period of validity of any TIP may be granted by Flexible Anti-Smuggling Teams (FAST) offices in Blantyre, Lilongwe, and Mzuzu only.
For the up-to-date applicable tax incentives, see Malawi Revenue Authority - Tax Incentives.| Relevant documents | Tax Incentives |
| Relevant institutions | Malawi Investment and Trade Centre Malawi Revenue Authority |
Malawi facilitates private investment in the energy sector to achieve its industrialization ambition under Vision 2063. The Electricity Generation Company Ltd (EGENCO) is the national generation company with an installed capacity of 441.95 Megawatts (MW) of which 390.55 MW is hydrogenated and 51.4 MW is from thermal diesel generators. EGENCO has ambitions to increase generation capacity and supply to 1,256.5 by 2029 and 1,631 by 2034, including thorough public-private partnership (PPPs). The Electricity Supply Commission of Malawi (ESCOM) is the de facto single buyer of electricity that enters into Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with Independent Power Producers (IPPPs).
The current suppressed electricity demand (if all step loads were supplied with power) stands at 750MW. If the full potential of the economic power demand growth drivers (mining, manufacturing, processing, domestic and institutional use, services sector, and irrigation needs) is realized, the total power requirement is estimated at 2,830 by 2030. Malawi's power transmission network has a total capacity of approximately 1,790.5 MVA across 400kV, 132kV, and 66kV networks. Presently, there is a project that is constructing, uprating, and upgrading the transmission network to 1,250MW. According to Malawi's National Energy Compact, 2025, its energy transition needs are as follows.
The National Energy Compact of Malawi, 2025, featured investment opportunities in power, generation, transmission, including regional inter-connectedness, and distribution. The projects have a total funding requirement of approximately US$5.5 billion, with only US$530.8 committed from the internal and external sources, leaving a funding gap of almost US$4.9 billion. Considering the engagement of development partners, the National Energy Compact of Malawi presents an important opportunity for foreign investors.
More specifically, there are projects ready for foreign investment.
| Project | Capacity | Status and Opportunity | Capital |
| Mpatamanga hydro | 340MW | Developed by development partners. Most of the financing is secured, and the project is seeking private capital under the PPP model | US$1.2 billion |
| Salima solar and BESS | 50 MW | EGENCO is constructing the first phase of 10 MW. It is seeking a private partner for the 40 MW and BESS | US$54.0 million |
| Fufu hydro | 261 MW | Construction is expected to commence in 2026. EGENCO is seeking private capital under PPP or IPP | US$400.0 million |
| Kholombidzo | 210 MW | Commissioning of the project is expected by 2034. EGENCO is seeking private capital under PPP or IPP | US$511.5 million |
The sector offers several investment opportunities as outlined in the Energy Power Market Compendium.
Malawi is furthermore part of the Southern African Regional Power Pool (SAPP), further expanding the market opportunities for investors.
Investing in the Power Sector
Investment in the power sector must be in line with the Integrated Resource Plan ( power generation and grid expansion) and the Annual Generation Procurement Plan. Investors in the energy sector can enter through the solicited or unsolicited procurement process under the Independent Power Producer Framework.
a.) Solicited IPP Procurement Process - Under this arrangement, the international competitive bidding (ICB) is the default procurement method. Following the conduct of a pre-feasibility and a full feasibility, the government, through ESCOM initiates an ICB process. Once the tenders are evaluated and the preferred SIPP is selected, contractual negotiations are held for transmission connection, power purchase, and implementation with ESCOM before the issuance of a licence. Once all license conditions are fulfilled, the Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority grants the investor (IPP) a conditional power generation license.
b.) Unsolicited IPP Procurement Process - Investors can submit unsolicited bids for power projects to ESCOM, the Single Buyer, who carries out an assessment of the Unsolicited Independent Power Producer's bid to determine if the UIPP can be contracted using single sourcing or subjected to competitive bidding. In the case of an approved single sourcing, the process proceeds to a feasibility study and contractual negotiations as per the IPP framework.
| Relevant documents | Energy Power market Compendium |
| Relevant institutions | Malawi Investment and Trade Centre Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority ESCOM |
Investment opportunities for the agriculture sector include: livestock production, aquaculture, horticulture, agro processing, sugar, honey production, integrated cotton development and cassava production.
Details of potential Agriculture and Agro-processing Investment Projects are in Malawi’s Compendium of Investment Projects.
Manufacturing: Most of the traditional agricultural crops such as tobacco and tea are exported in a semi- processed state. There are huge opportunities for investors to convert most of these agricultural products into high value finished products. Specific opportunities lie in:
| Relevant institutions | Ministry of Industry and Trade Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Water Development |
Malawi is endowed with a rich natural and cultural heritage that makes it one of the most attractive tourist destinations in the world. It is positioned as a country that is: Rich in Contrast, Compact in size, and Big in Hospitality. The country is rich in contrast due to beach and water experiences, scenic landscapes, diverse wildlife, favourable climate, and unique cultural assets. The short distances between various tourist attractions make it easy to move from one attraction to another within a short period. The peaceful environment, neighbourly social interaction, and tolerant and authentic relationships of locals with visitors and other cultures make it big in hospitality. These attractions are summed up in the following product lines:
EXPERIENCE WATER
Lake Malawi is Africa’s third-largest lake and the eleventh deepest in the world and home to over 700 species of tropical colorful fish, cichlids, most of which are endemic. Part of the lake is home to the Lake Malawi National Park, the world’s first freshwater marine park and UNESCOs world heritage site
EXPERIENCE NATURE
With beautiful and breathtaking natural scenery from as low as barely above sea level to as high as 3002ft above sea level, Malawi has a diversity of landscapes. From tea estates, forest reserves, to streams, waterfalls, mountains, and plateaus, one can engage in various activities such as tea tasting, climbing, trekking, mountain biking, and bird watching.
EXPERIENCE WILDLIFE
Malawi is Africa’s newest big 5 destination. Its nine national parks and Wildlife reserves offer a unique and intimate game viewing experience. Whether by 4by4, walking and trekking, or boat, Malawi offers undoubtedly a memorable game viewing experience.
Malawi boasts of having over 650 species of birds and 10% of which cannot be seen in other parts of southern Africa.
EXPERIENCE PEOPLE & CULTURE
Malawi’s people, warm, friendly and welcoming, are by far its greatest asset. The country is home to over 16 million inhabitants, by far one of the densely populated countries this part of Africa, but it is through interaction with the people that leaves one to have a true feel of the warmth of Malawi’s people, hence the slogan, ‘the warm heart of Africa’.
EXPERIENCE MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events)
In recent years, Malawi has also become a popular destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events locally and internationally.
The government advertises for PPP opportunities in the tourism sector from time to time.
Under these product lines, the sector offers various investment opportunities:
Details of potential Tourism Investment Projects are in the Malawi Tourism Masterplan Malawi’s Compendium of Investment Projects. See www.mitc.mw
Priority Tourism Investment Projects 2025
| Project | Planned Amenities | Estimated Cost (USD) Million | Mode of Delivery |
| Integrated Cable Car resort on Mount Mulanje | 32-room eco-lodge, health and wellness centre, cable car | 46.0 | with an option for PPP |
| Integrated Resort at Golden Sands, Cape Maclear | 90-room hotel, 10 Chalets on the top of the mountain, 20-bed Eco Lodge at Mfula Bay, aquarium, conference facility, | 21.3 | |
| Integrated Tourism Facility | 100-room up-market hotel, a partitioned 1,000 capacity Convention Centre, a sporting complex, shopping, and entertainment complex, golf course, an underground aquarium, casino, and housing estate | 43.3 | with an option for PPP |
| Activity Centre at Likoma Island | Aquarium, fast-food outlet, restaurant, jetty, promenade | 1.4 | with an option for PPP |
The mining sector is one of the priority sectors due to its potential for economic diversification, job creation, and exports. Mining activities in Malawi are regulated under the Mines and Minerals Act. Currently, the most exploited minerals are phosphate, coal, limestone, uranium, and rock aggregate; however, the contribution of the mining industry to GDP in less than 1.0 percent. The government aims to scale up the sector's contribution to GDP from 1.0 percent to at least 10.0 percent or 15 percent by 2030. Focus is on developing rare earth elements (REE) and graphite deposits, recognizing their importance in the global transition to clean technologies.
Malawi has a diverse mineral resource base consisting of energy minerals - coal, uranium, oil, and gas; Industrial minerals - REEs, bauxite (source of aluminum), and heavy mineral sands bearing titanium; construction materials- rock aggregates such as granite, clay, and limestone; and precious metals and stones, mainly gold and gemstones respectively. Many of the mineral resources have previously been explored and evaluated by the government and private investors. A wealth of geological data is available for investors to work with to develop economically viable mining operations. Details can be obtained from the Mining and Minerals Regulatory Authority (MMRA).
The Mining and Mineral Authority is an independent regulatory authority for mining and mineral resources in Malawi, established under the Mines and Mineral Act no. 25 of 2023. The Authority has issued several guidelines on applications for exploration licenses, medium-scale mining licenses, reconnaissance, retention, and transfer of mineral tenements.
The government has also set up the Malawi Mining Investment Company (MAMICO), under the Malawi Development Corporation Holdings Limited (MDCHL), to promote the optimal development of Malawi’s mining sector, aiming to maximize national revenue and social benefits. Its role is to oversee and facilitate government investments in mining, aligning with national development goals, and to facilitate PPP arrangements in the mining sector. In October 2025, there was a government directive banning raw mineral exports in a push for local value addition.
Opportunities for a PPP arrangement in the Malawian mining sector arise in the areas of
Type of Licenses by Entity
Type of License | Entity |
| Exploration licensee | Medium and large-scale operators |
| Large-scale mining license | Medium and large-scale operations |
| Retention Licenses | Medium and large-scale operators |
| Reconnaissance license | Medium and large-scale operators |
| Medium-scale mining license | Medium and large-scale operators |
| Reserve Mineral license | Small-scale operator |
| Small-scale-Mining licenses | Small-scale operator |
| Non-Exclusive prospecting license | Small-scale operator |
| Relevant documents | Mines and Mineral Acts |
| Relevant institutions | Mining and Minerals Regulatory Authority Malawi Mining Investment Company |
| Project | Elements | Reserve Tonnage (Mn tonnes) | Estimated Cost (USD) | Promoter |
| Lake Malombe Mining Project | Rare Earth Elements; Nickel, Nephelimite, Microfoyaite, Thorium, Phosphorus, Cerium, Europium, Neodymium, Samarium and Ytterbium | TBA | Mpatsa Holding Limited | |
| Mining of Lime (Karonga) | Lime mining and processing | - | 1.0 million | WHY Lime Mining Ltd |
| Kangankude Rare Earths | Extracting rare earth elements | 11.0 | Lindia Resources | |
| Songwe Hill Rare Earth Project | Rare earth element (REE) mineralisation occurs in the carbonatites, fenites and breccias. The dominant REE-bearing minerals are synchysite and apatite | 18.14 | 15.79 million | Mkango Resources |
| Tengani Heavy Mineral Sands | Sand mining | 0.47 | Crown Minerals | |
| Kanyika Niobium Project | Niobium and Tantalum oxides | 55.0 | 46 million | Globe Metals & Mining |
| Kasiya Rutile-Graphite Project (Lilongwe and Dowa) | Extracting rare earth elements and mining of graphite | 77.3 | 597 million | Sovereign Metals Ltd. |
The regulator of the financial sector in Malawi is the Reserve Bank of Malawi: see www.rbm.mw
There are 8 commercial banks operating in Malawi. However, there is still opportunity for additional banks in the sector as the rate of financial inclusion is estimated to be around 20 percent, ie, the adult population with bank accounts.
Malawi’s 8 commercial banks include:
Insurance Companies
The insurance penetration rate in Malawi is among the lowest in the world and in Africa, with the average rate over the last 5 years estimated to be between 2.8% to 3.5%. This is quite low given that the country’s population currently stands at about 17.2 million.
Malawi has different categories of insurance companies. These include:
The investment opportunities in the insurance sector include:
| Relevant institutions | Reserve Bank of Malawi Insurance Institute of Malawi |
Malawi has
about 25 micro finance institutions. These include credit cooperatives and
micro finance services set up by non-governmental organizations. See www.rbm.mw or http://www.mamn.mw
for details.
There is a Malawi Microfinance Network (MAMN), being a legally constituted grouping of these microfinance institutions and institutions that are providing microfinance related services in Malawi. Its major objectives are to: develop, promote and regulate microfinance activities so as to ensure good governance as a way of ensuring their sustainability and enhancement of their capacities to stimulate and enhance private sector development and be key players in rural and urban economic and social transformation in Malawi.
Its major activities include: facilitating the exchange of experiences, ideas, innovations, information and technologies in order to strengthen microfinance operations among member institutions, and build capacity within the sector as a whole. The opportunities in this sector include investment in affordable and easily accessible microfinance services, targeting the SMEs.
Forex dealers
Foreign exchange can be obtained from commercial banks or foreign exchange bureau found in cities across the country. However, there are times when these bureau are faced with high demand than supply. There are still investments opportunities in terms of opening more foreign bureau to provide reliable services to the business community.
| Relevant documents | Guidelines for Licensing and operating Money Transfer Agents |
The real estate sector in Malawi is growing steadily and is one of key growth sectors contributing to GDP is estimated at 7.6 percent, GoM Annual Economic Report (2016). The popular segments of the real estate sector include: housing, offices, and recently farm lands.
In the housing segment, the demand for housing units is driven by the growing annual rate of urbanization estimated at 6.3 percent, as well as economic growth. As such institutions responsible for provision of housing are not able to meet the growing demand, particularly of high quality.
Institutions in the property sector include Malawi Property Investment Company Ltd (MPICO) and the Malawi Housing Cooperation (MHC) Malawi Housing Corporation (MHC). Both MPICO and MHC undertake their investment projects in partnership with local and foreign property investors.
Besides the semi-public institutions, with the liberalization policy Malawi has seen emergence of private real estate agents dealing in selling of housing units, farm land, and plots.
Specifically, the real estate investment opportunities include:
Details of potential Property Investment Projects are in Malawi’s Compendium of Investment Projects. See www.mitc.mw
| Relevant institutions | Malawi Housing Corporation MPICO Limited |
The growth sectors for Malawi do indeed have the potential for realizing investors returns to investments. Since, Malawi needs investments in different sectors, there is need for a coordinated investor promotion process to realize the needed competitive advantage in the economy.
| Official name | Republic of Malawi | |||
| Country area | 118,480km2 | |||
| Capital city | Lilongwe | |||
| Population | 22.2 Million | 2025 | ||
| Administrative regions | 3 | |||
| Local currency | Malawi Kwacha | |||
| Exchange rate | 1,751/ 1 US$ | |||
| Official language(s) | English | |||
| Other national language(s) | Chichewa | |||
| GDP | 11.01 billion US$ | 2024 | ||
| GDP per capita(ppp) | 1,625US$ | 2024 | ||
| Real GDP growth | 1.8 percent | 2024 | ||
| Literacy rate | 74% Male | 70 % Female | ||
| Fiscal Year | 1st April- 30th March | |||
| Normal Working Hours | 7:30 am- 12:00 noon | 1:00 pm- 4:30 pm | ||
| Main seaports of entry | Durban | Dar es salaam | Nacala | Beira |
| International Airports | Kamuzu International Airport(Lilongwe) | Chileka International Airport(Blantyre) |
