By Jones Gadama
The Ministry of Trade is considering lifting the ban on the exportation of scrap metals, but with certain conditions in place.
According to the Minister of Trade, Engineer Vitumbiko Mumba, the government wants to ensure that Malawians can conduct business without suffocating the economy.
In a recent interview with this publication Minister Mumba said that scrap metal dealers have been asked to list down items that are a source of vandalism, such as copper and manholes, which will not be included in the exportation.
This move aims to strike a balance between promoting trade and preventing the vandalism of critical infrastructure.
The ban on scrap metal exports was initially imposed due to the rampant vandalism of copper cables and other items, which was threatening the national development agenda.
The Ministry of Trade had revoked the exportation of scrap metals under the Control of Goods (Import and Export License) regulations.
Minister Mumba’s proposal suggests that the government is willing to revisit the ban and explore ways to promote the scrap metal industry while minimizing the risks associated with vandalism.
The move is likely to have a positive impact on the business community, particularly scrap metal dealers who have been affected by the ban.
However, the government will need to ensure that the conditions for exportation are strictly enforced to prevent the vandalism of critical infrastructure.
The listing of specific items that will be excluded from exportation is a step in the right direction, and it will be important to monitor the implementation of these regulations to ensure that they are effective in preventing vandalism.
Overall, the proposed lifting of the ban on scrap metal exports with conditions is a welcome development for the business community.
It remains to be seen how the government will implement these regulations and ensure that the scrap metal industry contributes to the country’s economic growth without compromising national development.
