COMESA says the Time Release Study conducted at the Mchinji One Stop Border Post is a significant milestone in improving trade efficiency for Malawi and the region.
Speaking at the validation workshop for the study in Mchinji, COMESA Programme Manager, Mshuka Kamwela, emphasised the need for seamless processes to enhance trade facilitation at Mchinji -Mwami border post and other borders of the country.
She said findings of the study are aligned with COMESA’s ongoing efforts to eliminate delays and cumbersome procedures at border posts.
She stressed that initiatives such as the introduction of the electronic Certificate of Origin and the Simplified Trade Regime will enhance efficiency, benefiting both large and small-scale traders.
“We are working towards establishing a single window system to ensure seamless processes at borders. Our goal is to reduce manual interventions and enhance efficiency across the region,” said Kamwela.
The Ministry of Trade’s Director of Trade, Charity Musonzo, called on the business community to utilise official border facilities, citing their critical role in boosting Malawi’s trade competitiveness.
“Using official borders like the Mchinji OSBP ensures Malawi gains more from imports and exports. Smuggling through unofficial routes only hampers progress,” said Musonzo.
Commenting on the same, the Malawi Revenue Authority also affirmed its commitment to resolving challenges, including technical issues with scanners, to expedite goods clearance and encourage e-payment systems for smooth operations.
“Since 2022, revenue at this facility has grown by over 40 percent, proving its positive impact on the country’s trade and economic environment. Currently through the facility MRA is capable of collecting revenue worth over K3 billion per month,” said MRA’s Deputy Commissioner Operations, Moses Masina.
The validation workshop serves as a key step in ensuring that findings from the study are implemented to strengthen Malawi’s position in regional trade.
#MBCDigital
#Manthu
