MALAWI: Traders Criticize Government’s New Crop Buying License

By Smile Hamilton, Malawi 

Local traders in Malawi are criticizing the government’s introduction of a new crop buying license, that allows holders to purchase crops from any district in the country.

The Ministry of Agriculture has increased the license fee from 10,000 kwacha to 50,000 kwacha, sparking concerns among small-scale business operators.

Tenson Mulimbula, Secretary General of the Small Scale Business Operators Association of Malawi, has condemned the decision, describing it as inconsiderate.

Mulimbula argues that the move will create a monopolistic business environment, favoring large capital businesses over smaller ones.

He believes that this will negatively impact small-scale traders who are crucial to the country’s agricultural sector.

Mulimbula is calling for the authorities to reverse the decision and reinstate specific licenses for specific districts. He believes that this would help maintain a fair and competitive market for all traders, regardless of their size.

The government’s decision has sparked debate about the future of Malawi’s agricultural sector and the role of small-scale traders in the industry. As the situation unfolds, many are watching to see how the government will respond to the concerns raised by traders.