Malawi launches single digital platform to boost trade efficiency

MALAWI – The Malawi Confederation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (MCCCI), in collaboration with TradeMark Africa (TMA) and the UK Government, has launched the Single Digital Platform (SDP), a groundbreaking digital solution aimed at streamlining trade-related applications.

The initiative, unveiled on March 12, is expected to significantly reduce administrative burdens and costs while strengthening market linkages for exporters, importers, and trade facilitation agents in Malawi.

By automating key processes such as the issuance of Certificates of Origin and integrating with the National Registration Bureau and Malawi Revenue Authority, the SDP will shorten processing times, lower costs, and enhance market access for businesses.

Additionally, the platform incorporates e-commerce opportunities, positioning Malawi’s trade sector as more competitive in the global market.

Hon. Eng. Vitumbiko Mumba, Malawi’s Minister of Trade and Industry emphasized the platform’s transformative impact  for local and international markets.

“This platform will empower SMEs and entrepreneurs by providing a seamless and accessible digital platform that eases their administrative costs and connects them to local and international markets.”

On his part, Dr Wisely Phiri, MCCCI President, reiterated the broader benefits of the SDP.

“The SDP is about more than just reducing costs and processing times for trade documents such as Certificates of Origin—it is about empowering Malawian businesses to thrive in local, regional, and international markets,” he stated.

Highlighting the inefficiencies of the previous manual system, TMA Director for the Southern Africa Region, Jovin Mwemezi, noted that previously, businesses could spend up to 30 hours and incur substantial costs just to obtain essential trade certificates, understandably, due to manual, costly processes that are prone to errors. “This will no longer be the case,” he affirmed.

The UK Government, a key supporter of the project through the Malawi Trade and Investment Programme, expressed its commitment to enhancing trade efficiency.

Malawi’s Deputy British High Commissioner and Development Director, Ms. Olympia Wereko-Brobby, stated: “The UK is proud to support the development of the portal through the Malawi Trade and Investment Programme, which aims to reduce the time and cost of trade and promote exports for economic growth.”

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