From Barriers to Bridges: Saving Millions for Malawi’s Exporters

Malawian exporters can now annually save more than MWK180 million (approx. EUR 90,000) thanks to the removal of a cumbersome border procedure. This breakthrough, achieved in June 2025 through joint efforts of the SADC Secretariat and the German Government under the GIZ Cooperation for the Enhancement of SADC Regional Economic Integration (CESARE) programme, has transformed the trade environment for groundnut exporters. For H Adam Agro, a leading exporter to Kenya, the savings are immediate and substantial - over MWK 3 million (EUR 1,500) per month. With four other exporters benefiting along the same corridor, the resolution not only cuts costs but also speeds up trade, reduces contamination risks, and ensures fresher groundnuts for consumers.

Since October 2024, exporters had been required to offload and re-inspect containers at the Songwe Border Post, even though consignments had already been sealed and cleared by the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) at the point of origin. This duplication delayed shipments, increased risks, and added MWK1 million (about EUR 100) per truck.

The challenge was formally raised at the AfCFTA/NTB training workshop held in May 2025, jointly organised by the SADC Secretariat, CESARE, the Malawi Ministry of Trade and Industry, and the AU AfCFTA Support Programme. With CESARE’s support, H Adam Agro registered the NTB on the Tripartite NTB Reporting Platform. Within a month, the SADC Secretariat and CESARE convened a high-level multi-stakeholder meeting with customs officials, private sector representatives, and NTB administrators. Constructive dialogue resulted in a commitment to restore the integrity of sealed consignments and eliminate unnecessary inspections.

Tangible Impact
This resolution goes beyond financial savings. It eases congestion at border posts, strengthens trust in regional NTB mechanisms, and improves the competitiveness of Malawian exporters in regional markets.

As Mr. Yedwa Martin Mhango, Managing Director of H Adam Agro, emphasised: “Resolving this NTB means a lot to our business because now we have faster access to our destination markets without spending a day or two at the border. It has reduced our costs and ensures fresher, safer groundnuts for our customers. This resolution is a game changer for our business and the thousands of farmers we support.”

Partnership Driving Regional Integration
This success is part of the wider CESARE Trade Component, commissioned by the German Government and co-funded by the European Union. Implemented by GIZ in close partnership with the SADC Secretariat, CESARE works to reduce trade barriers, improve customs procedures, and strengthen regional competitiveness. By facilitating the removal of NTBs, CESARE directly supports the SADC Protocol on Trade and contributes to realising the AfCFTA.

What This Means for Germany
For Germany, such interventions go beyond technical trade facilitation. They reflect a commitment to inclusive economic growth, regional stability, and stronger EU–Africa relations. By supporting efficient, rules-based trading systems, Germany helps create opportunities for African exporters while laying the foundation for fairer, more sustainable partnerships between Africa and Europe. This aligns with Germany’s vision of promoting value addition in Africa, reducing dependence on raw commodity exports, and fostering long-term economic transformation.

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