Malawi's Chamber of Mines and Energy has warned that the ongoing suspension of new mining licences is slowing growth and investment in the extractive sector, according to Nation Online. The government recently halted new licences, launched a nationwide mining audit, and banned raw mineral exports to improve industry transparency. However, Chamber coordinator Grain Malunga noted that the sector currently contributes just 1 percent to the national gross domestic product and urged authorities to lift the suspension to help generate much-needed foreign exchange.
In agricultural trade, the National Food Reserve Agency has managed to procure 26,663 metric tonnes of grain, but progress is being hindered by traders who are reportedly hoarding maize. Nation Online reports that the procurement efforts follow earlier disagreements where farmers and traders rejected the agency's set buying prices, putting additional pressure on the country's strategic grain reserves.
Meanwhile, the Consumers Association of Malawi has issued a strong appeal to the country's political leaders to focus on economic recovery over internal disputes. According to Nation Online, the association is urging politicians to channel their energies into rebuilding the economy and addressing the severe poverty and daily hardships facing Malawians rather than engaging in continuous intra-party bickering.
On the regional front, Malawi and Zimbabwe have committed to strengthening their bilateral relations through increased trade and investment. During the 46th Ordinary Southern African Development Community Summit in South Africa, Second Vice-President Enock Chihana met with Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa to discuss expanding economic partnerships, facilitating cross-border trade, and jointly addressing economic challenges within the region, Nation Online reports.