IOR Africa: Your Importer of Record Experts in Malawi
Taxes: 16.50%
Duties: Up to 5%
Lead Time: 1 Week
Best carrier option: Freight Forwarder
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Malawi presents opportunities for IT and telecom expansion, but businesses face significant compliance and operational challenges when bringing technology products into the country. Border restrictions, underdeveloped infrastructure, and evolving digital markets make careful preparation essential for successful trade.
Malawi’s import and export licensing system is shaped by health, safety, and national security concerns. Certain categories of goods require special permits, and missing approvals can cause long border delays.
Despite efforts to establish one-stop border posts, clearance remains slow. Bureaucratic processes and limited capacity at checkpoints often prolong shipment times.
While Malawi’s e-commerce ecosystem is still developing, the sector has shown steady progress in recent years. According to the U.S. Country Commercial Guide on Malawi’s e-commerce landscape, internet penetration remains limited—reaching roughly 30% in urban areas and around 15% nationwide.
ICT goods represented 3.3% of total imports in 2020, reflecting a long-term downward trend. This volatility complicates planning for long-term investments in Malawi’s digital sector.
Secure necessary import licenses and permits for ICT and telecom goods
Manage Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) shipments with accurate HS code–based product classification, proper duty calculations, and complete customs clearance documentation.
Streamline customs clearance at border posts to reduce delays
Deliver end-to-end logistics and customs representation to simplify tech imports