Southern African Trade and Connectivity Project (Malawi)
In a landmark development for Malawi’s trade sector, Minister of Trade and Industry Hon.
Engineer Vitumbiko A.Z. Mumba officially launched the Malawi National Single Window
(NSW) system Go Live today, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s journey toward
trade facilitation and digital transformation.
During the ceremony, Minister Mumba emphasized the NSW as a strategic tool designed to
streamline cross-border trade procedures. “The NSW is not just a technological platform; it is
a means to simplify, harmonize, and digitize trade processes,” he stated. “This will lead to
faster clearance times, reduced costs, and greater transparency for traders and government
alike.”
The initiative aligns with Malawi’s commitments under international agreements such as the
World Trade Organization’s Trade Facilitation Agreement and the African Continental Free
Trade Area, reinforcing the country’s ambition to become a regional trade hub. “Our goal is
to connect Malawi more effectively as a land-linked trade corridor, fostering inclusive
economic growth,” Mumba added.
Extensive preparations have been undertaken, including system development, stakeholder
training, and data input. Training efforts will continue to accommodate new license
applicants and traders, ensuring broad operational readiness across all users.
The NSW’s initial phase begins with the Ministry of Trade and Industry, with plans to
onboard six additional agencies over the coming weeks. This phased approach aims to ensure
smooth integration and provide ongoing support for stakeholders.
Key traders who frequently apply for licenses and permits were invited to witness the launch
firsthand, encouraging immediate engagement with the platform. Minister Mumba urged the
business community to embrace the system and provide feedback to optimize its utility.
“Today marks the beginning of a more efficient and transparent trade environment,” the
minister remarked. “Success depends on strong collaboration among all government agencies
and active participation from traders and the private sector.”
Speaking at the same event, Mr. Hastings Ngoma, Project Manager for the Southern Africa Trade and Connectivity Project (SATCP), a World Bank initiative funded under the Ministry
of Transport and Public Works which funded the NSW Project said the NSW is a key component of SATCP’s objective to modernize Malawi’s trade ecosystem. ‘The NSW seamlessly integrates with existing systems such as the Malawi Revenue Authority’s ASYCUDA World System, E-payment gateways, and banks, creating a connected and harmonized trade environment that aligns with regional and international standards,” he said.
The NSW initiative is expected to significantly improve trade facilitation, create opportunities for economic growth, and position Malawi as a key player in regional trade. The NSW roll-out plan will see the platform go live for seven key MDAs now, and expand to integrate a total of 22 agencies by September 2025. The NSW project is being funded to the tune of $6.9 million by the World Bank.
