Government measures to keep more economic value within Malawi
Officials say the ban is part of efforts to encourage domestic processing and create local industrial activity linked to the mining sector. The restriction of the shipment of minerals in their raw form is an initiative by the government to increase jobs, retain export earnings and develop supporting industries rather than sending resources abroad for refinement.
The order reinforces the administration’s long-standing position that mineral development should support Malawi’s economic growth, particularly through value addition and industrialisation.
Range of minerals included in the ban
The prohibition applies to minerals extracted in Malawi, including uranium and rare earth elements, niobium, graphite, tantalum, bauxite, coal, limestone, phosphate, gold, diamonds, copper and various gemstones. However, the ban does not extend to processed or refined minerals within Malawi, which may still be exported in accordance with the terms and conditions set by the Mining Sector.
