By Rosalia Kapiri
Ministry of Trade and Industry on Monday launched the Malawi National Single Window (MNSW), a digital platform designed to simplify and fast-track licensing processes for importers and exporters.
Speaking at the launch at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe, Minister of Trade and Industry, Vitumbiko Mumba, said the MNSW will allow traders to apply for and track import and export licenses online, eliminating the need for physical visits to multiple government offices.
He said: “This is not just a platform; it’s a tool to simplify the way of doing business and about nice trade procedures.
“Sometimes we don’t understand the cost of waiting in queues, driving, and following up. Those are hidden costs, and this system will help eliminate them.”
The digital platform is expected to reduce the licensing processing time from up to 14 days to just 72 hours.
It will also enhance transparency and reduce face-to-face interactions, which government hopes will curb corruption.
“Today marks the beginning of the national single window operation life. Traders, please embrace this. Start giving your feedback in an honest manner, and we’ll move forward together,” said Mumba.
Manager for Southern Africa Trade and Connectivity Project (SATCP), Douglas Ng’oma, noted that MNSW is a key milestone in the ongoing regional initiative.
“Now we are launching the national window which is important to us,” he said adding that 14 government agencies are involved and more will be added in phases.
The system, developed by Crimson Logic, is part of a broader US$7 million investment under the SATCP, supported by the World Bank.
The goal is to boost regional trade coordination, reduce costs and delays, and improve infrastructure and value chains across Malawi and Mozambique.
Chipiku Stores’ Head of Operations, Timothy Nyirongo, welcomed the development, noting that it will help businesses like theirs save time and avoid lengthy delays in obtaining trade documents.
The Ministry has committed to continuous training and stakeholder engagement to ensure smooth adoption of the platform nationwide.
