As the country searches for ways to revamp its economy, business leaders say the country’s recovery will depend on how quickly industries can move from simply showcasing products to striking deals that expand markets and generate foreign exchange.
That call came to life at the 36th Malawi International Trade Fair, which closed last week at Chichiri Trade Fair Grounds in Blantyre after drawing more than 240 exhibitors and producing a mix of confirmed contracts, ongoing negotiations and new opportunities for youth‑led enterprises.
For youth‑led enterprises, the fair was a proving ground. Noah Chadza of Peculiar Green Farms, who described himself as a start‑upper said the event gave him exposure and networks he could not have built elsewhere.
“Selling seedlings at this time of the year is tough, but I sold out and made numerous contacts. For me, this fair has been about exposure and building networks,” he said.
His story mirrors that of Veronica Jeremiah, chairperson of the Zakudimba Cooperative in Bvumbwe.
Her group’s stall quickly became a center of attention, thanks to their banana wine, chidede juice, and neatly packaged chisoso.
“When we come to exhibitions like this, it is also a chance to search for new markets. Shops such as Ekhaya Farms and Shopwise have already asked us to bring samples of what we make. Many people are interested in our wine, and we hope to begin producing in larger quantities and bottling it in glass.” She said.
Aside from the exhibition, much of the commercial success was achieved through the Business Forum, which ran as a side event alongside the exhibitions and provided a structured environment for companies to negotiate and sign deals.
Post the Forum, Assemblies of God Press confirmed a long‑term supply arrangement for printed materials.
The firm’s Sales and Marketing Associate Moses Malindima said the deal underscored the importance of the platform.
“The Business Forum gave us the space to engage directly with clients. We are confident this arrangement will strengthen our footprint in the market and provide sustainable value for both sides,” he said.
At the same session, Sky Energy Africa confirmed a multimillion deal of supplying solar innovations, with contract signing expected within three months.
The firm’s Director of Business Development Hastings Golosi described the outcome as a positive development.
“We are excited to move forward with contracts that will not only deliver clean power but also create jobs and opportunities in the sector,” he said.
On its part, Serendib Hotels and Resorts advanced a joint venture in hospitality, while GM Plastics reached agreement in principle to supply packaging for Illovo and Salima Sugar, amounting to 30,000 units.
Energy regulator Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority also shared that the regulator explored trade facilitation through Dar es Salaam port, signaling new cross‑border logistics opportunities while Salima Sugar Company entered discussions on financing and distribution agreements worth billions, with potential expansion into ethanol, bottled water and fertilizer production.
Exhibitors also expressed satisfaction with the exposure gained. Raiply Malawi Limited reported securing orders in millions, underscoring industrial demand.
“The fair has shown us that our products can compete regionally if we keep pushing capacity,” a Raiply official said.
Old Mutual Malawi said annual premium expectations exceeded K50 million, achieved through networking and client engagement.
“We were able to meet clients we would not have reached otherwise. For us, this was about building trust and visibility,” an Old Mutual representative said.
Speaking during the official opening, Minister of Industrialisation, Business, Trade and Tourism Hon. Simoni Itaye told participants that industrialisation was key to stabilising the economy.
“We must produce more, add value locally and reduce reliance on imports. This fair shows the private sector is ready to lead that transformation,” he said.
He added that government would continue to support initiatives that strengthen production and competitiveness, noting that the fair had become a barometer of Malawi’s industrial progress.
MCCCI president Ronald Ngwira echoed the sentiment, stressing that the fair was not only about exhibitions but about turning conversations into business.
We are encouraged to see companies moving beyond display stands to actual deals. That is the essence of this platform. It is about building trust, opening markets and creating opportunities that last beyond the fairgrounds,” he said.
Organised by the Malawi Confederation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (MCCCI), the fair ran under the theme Promoting Economic Stability through enhanced Production and Industrialization.
Exhibitors ranged from packaging and energy firms to hospitality, finance and agro‑processing companies, while side activities such as the Business Forum, School and Career Days added colour to the nine-day showcase.
