Since 2020, TMA’s Malawi Country Programme, which was established with catalytic funding from the UK, has focused on three priorities: improving trade infrastructure, reducing barriers to trade, and supporting businesses to compete more effectively in regional and international markets. These efforts are closely aligned with Malawi’s own development ambitions as set out in the Malawi Growth and Development Strategy III, the National Export Strategy II, and the National Transport Master Plan, all of which recognise trade as a driver of economic transformation.

Over the past three years, this partnership has delivered tangible results. At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, TMA supported the Malawi Revenue Authority to introduce the ‘Blue Lane’ customs initiative, which slashed clearance times for relief goods from three days to just three hours (Source: STEF Independent Evaluation Report) ensuring vital supplies reached communities without delay.

Investments have also focused on longer-term trade infrastructure. TMA facilitated feasibility studies for the Lilongwe Dry Port at Area 55, which in 2023 was approved by the Government to progress to the transaction advisory phase, an important step in attracting private sector investment into Malawi’s logistics sector. A new electronic data exchange system linking Malawi’s and Tanzania’s customs platforms now allows real-time access to trade declarations and risk profiles. Additionally, TMA partnered with the Malawi Bureau of Standards to enable the agency secure international accreditation under the Southern African Development Community Accreditation Service, enabling the country to conduct recognised testing for macadamia and mango exports. Previously, such tests had to be done abroad, adding cost and delay for exporters. Today, Malawian produce can meet international quality requirements faster and more affordably