By Wadza Botomani
The Honourable Eng. Vitumbiko A.Z. Mumba,Minister of Trade and Industry, has underscored the critical importance of the Maputo International Trade Fair (FACIM) for strengthening bilateral relations with Mozambique and expanding Malawi’s economic horizons.
His comments came after the official opening of the 60th edition of the fair, presided over by His Excellency President Daniel Francisco Chapo of Mozambique.
Minister Mumba emphasized that Mozambique is a vital gateway for Malawian trade, providing access to broader African and international markets through the Nacala, Beira, and Maputo transport corridors. He stated that Malawi’s participation in FACIM is a strategic move to increase export trade, attract investment, and deepen commercial ties.
The Minister pointed to recent bilateral initiatives as key drivers for future growth. The newly launched Dedza–Calómuè One-Go Border Post and the Simplified Trade Regime are expected to significantly boost trade, making it more accessible for businesses of all sizes, including small and medium enterprises (SMEs). These efforts, combined with active engagement at the fair, are creating new opportunities for Malawian products such as sugar, plastics, poultry, rice, and beverages to reach markets within the SADC region and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Malawi’s delegation to the fair includes major players like ADMARC, Press Trust, Press Cane, and the National Bank of Malawi, alongside over 15 SMEs, demonstrating a commitment to inclusive economic participation. Minister Mumba is scheduled to join his Mozambican counterpart, Honourable Basilio Muhate, for a high-level panel discussion to further explore how the new border post and trade regime can unlock opportunities for traders and entrepreneurs from both nations.
“In short, our shared goal here is clear,” Mumba said. “That is, to promote trade between Malawi and Mozambique, create new opportunities, strengthen our businesses, and drive shared prosperity for our people.”
