Invest in Malawi Now: High ROI Opportunities

Malawi, a country known for its stability, rich natural resources, and resilient economy, is fast emerging as a prime investment destination in Africa. As a member of key African trade blocs, Malawi offers unmatched access to regional markets, with policies geared towards fostering a business-friendly environment. With a youthful workforce, abundant natural resources, and thriving sectors such as agriculture, energy, tourism, and mining, Malawi is ripe for investment. The government’s incentives, combined with ongoing economic reforms, make now the perfect time to explore the untapped potential of Malawi’s growing economy.

WHY invest in Malawi

Natural Resources Potential in Malawi

Agriculture: High-yield potential in tobacco, tea, sugar, and coffee with opportunities in organic farming, agro-processing, and export-driven agribusiness.
Mineral Wealth: Rich in uranium, rare earth elements, gemstones, and bauxite, with exploration potential for limestone, granite, and coal.
Hydropower: Significant potential in the Shire River and other waterways for renewable hydropower projects.
Forestry: Sustainable forestry and timber processing potential with substantial forest resources.

Business Stability

Political Stability: Ranked among the top five in East and Southern Africa for political stability, creating a secure environment for investment (Ibrahim Index of African Governance, 2022).
Investor Protection: Signatory to MIGA and bilateral investment treaties, ensuring protection for foreign investments and boosting investor confidence.

Economic Diversification

Manufacturing Expansion: Malawi’s manufacturing sector has shown 5% annual growth, with a focus on agro-processing and becoming a regional manufacturing hub (African Development Bank).
Industrial Parks: Designated industrial zones provide infrastructure for manufacturing and other industries, supporting economic diversification.

Government Incentives

Attractive Investment Incentives: Tax breaks, import duty exemptions, and capital allowances are available in priority sectors like mining, tourism, and manufacturing (Malawi Investment and Trade Centre).
Streamlined Processes: The One-Stop Service Centre simplifies business registration, licensing, and permits for investors (World Bank).

Human Capital

Agriculture-Focused Workforce: Approximately 70% of the population is employed in agriculture, providing a skilled labor force for agribusiness (World Bank).
Young Demographics: Over 50% of the population is under 25, creating a dynamic workforce suited for industries like tech, manufacturing, and services (World Bank).
Educational Growth: A steady rise in graduates in technology, business, and engineering broadens Malawi’s skilled talent pool.

Market Access

Regional Trade Hub: Central access to Tanzania, Zambia, and Mozambique, enhancing connectivity to larger African markets.
Trade Bloc Memberships: Member of SADC and COMESA, giving investors access to a combined consumer base of over 600 million (World Bank).
Growing Export Markets: Exports focused on agricultural products (tobacco, tea, sugar) reach both African and global markets, enhancing Malawi’s trade profile (Malawi National Export Strategy).

Connectivity

5,451 kilometers of roads, and more infra on plan

Multiple airports, including Kamuzu International

Several sea ports, including ports on Lake Malawi

Our clients

ZIC-JG Group - Five Element Industry Limited

Visions & testimonials

Denis Sassou N’Guesso
President of Republic of Congo

The 2021-2026 Social project of the Republic of Congo is focused on the industrialization of the country. The implementation of this ambitious plan – to structurally transform our economy – is based on the development of four existing special economic zones (SEZs), including: Pointe-Noire, Brazzavi...

Denis Christel Sassou Nguesso
Minister for International Cooperation & PPPs

At the dawn of the opening of the continental free trade zone, our country located in the heart of Africa must be a strategic hub for production, processing and distribution. It is in this perspective that the government of the Republic of Congo has decided to trust the ARISE group to ensure the dev...

Jean-Marc Thystere Tchicaya
Minister of SEZs & Economic Diversification

We welcome the partnership with the Arise IIP Group which, through the Industrial Platforms of Congo Pointe-Noire (PICP), is working hard to, in particular, make the Special Economic Zone of Pointe-Noire operational which, on relying on sectors with high growth potential, will become the driving for...

Julien Paluku
Minister of Industry of the DRC

Julien Paluku, Minister of Industry of the Democratic Republic of Congo, stated that the vision of a “New Congo,” as envisioned by H.E. Félix-Antoine TSHISEKEDI, is achievable through the establishment of competitive ecosystems and robust economic platforms. The creation of Special Economic Zones (...

Patrice Talon
President of the Republic of Benin

We have adopted a law to promote Special Economic Zones and the first Industrial Zone in Glo-Djigbé is fully operational and already welcoming investors. Benin's ambition is to become an industrial hub for the transformation of agricultural products such as cashew, cotton, shea butter, pineapple, s...

Gaston Dossouhoui
Minister-Agriculture, Livestock & Fisheries

Benin is entering an important phase in its history, that of going far with serious project leaders who will process raw materials and create jobs for young Beninese. These factories remain a safe destination for our raw materials and a prerequisite for increasing our agricultural production.

Michael Derus
Ambassador of Germany to Benin

It’s truIy impressive ! I was very pleased to return to GDIZ. My last visit was less than a year ago and I’m very impressed by the swift development I have seen, particularly in the Garment Training Center (GTC). The Zone has a great potential for international development.

Dr Akinwumi Adesina
President of African Development Bank (AFDB)

I am impressed by the scope of Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone (GDIZ). It will contribute to the industrialization of Benin by promoting the local transformation of Benin’s natural resources (cotton, cashew nuts, pineapples and others) and the creation of jobs for Benin’s youth. Congratulations to the Pr...

Arnaud Floris
Coordinator Africa- BPI France

Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone (GDIZ) reflects Benin's boldness and innovation: an inspiration for African countries with its immense potential for industrial development. We are committed to support, co-finance and co-invest in agribusiness projects, as a demonstration of our faith in Benin's vision an...d promising future!

Joseph Owondault Berre
Vice-President of the Gabonese

Everything is in place within the Nkok SIZ to foster high-quality projects and achievements. This Zone is a tool for promoting Gabon's expertise. It was a truly memorable visit.

Evariste Ndayisimiye
President of the Republic of Burundi

GSEZ is an example in the transformation of natural resources.

Raymond Ndong Sima
Prime Minister, Head of Government- Gabonese

Together, let's build our future by increasing our production capacity and exploring innovative avenues to maintain our position of choice on the international market.

Why Invest in Malawi?

What are the key sectors for investment in Malawi?

Malawi offers high-potential sectors, including agriculture, mining, tourism, energy (especially renewable energy), and manufacturing. Each of these sectors is supported by natural resources, government incentives, and a ready workforce.

What trade agreements and markets does Malawi have access to?

Malawi is a member of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), granting access to over 600 million consumers. Malawi also has trade agreements with other regional and global markets, facilitating export opportunities.

How can I set up a business in Malawi?

Africa For Investors platform, managed by Arise IIP, provides a Single Window Clearance facility for business registration and licensing, simplifying the setup process for foreign investors in Malawi's Industrial Zone.

What natural resources are available in Malawi for investment?

Malawi is rich in agricultural resources (e.g., tobacco, tea, sugar, and coffee) and minerals like uranium, rare earth elements, bauxite, and limestone. There’s also significant potential for hydropower and sustainable forestry.

How stable is Malawi politically and economically?

Malawi is considered one of the more stable countries in East and Southern Africa, with consistent governance and proactive economic reforms. The government prioritizes economic stability and investor-friendly policies to ensure a favorable investment climate.

Are there restrictions on repatriating profits and dividends?

Malawi allows for the full repatriation of profits, dividends, and capital. Foreign investors can transfer their funds with few restrictions, making it a favorable environment for international businesses.

What is the Magwero Industrial Park (MIP), and what does it aim to achieve?

The Magwero Industrial Park (MIP) is an integrated industrial park developed by ARISE IIP in partnership with the Republic of Malawi, located just 10 km from Lilongwe, the capital city. Officially launched on June 1st, 2024, with the support of Afreximbank, this $300 million project is designed to accelerate Malawi's industrialization by fostering economic diversification and maximizing the value of its natural resources. The park spans 417 hectares and features facilities for industrial manufacturing, agro-processing, logistics, and SME-friendly "Plug and Play" infrastructure.

What industries and business sectors are supported within the Magwero Industrial Park?

MIP supports a range of industries, including agro-processing for local crops such as soybeans, cotton, maize, tomatoes, and peanuts. It also has designated zones for manufacturing industries, producing goods like glass, construction materials, LED lighting, plywood, and paper. The park's comprehensive infrastructure makes it suitable for various industrial and manufacturing businesses looking to establish a base in Malawi.

What makes MIP's location strategically advantageous for investors?

MIP’s strategic location, 10 km from Kamuzu International Airport and the city center of Lilongwe, offers exceptional access to both domestic and regional markets. Its proximity to the Malawian railway network enhances logistical efficiency for both imports and exports. Additionally, the park includes an Internal Container Depot Terminal (ICDT) and logistics warehouses, making it ideal for businesses focused on streamlined supply chain management.

What infrastructure and facilities are available to businesses at MIP?

MIP offers extensive, ready-to-use infrastructure tailored to industrial and manufacturing needs, including logistics warehouses, a residential area, and “Plug and Play” facilities with pre-built hangars for SMEs. Businesses benefit from dedicated industrial zones, on-site utilities, and efficient logistics solutions, all designed to support operational excellence.

How does the public-private partnership between ARISE IIP and the Malawi Export Development Fund impact MIP’s development and operations?

The Magwero Industrial Park is developed under a public-private partnership, with 65% ownership by ARISE IIP and 35% by the Malawi Export Development Fund (EDF). This structure allows for aligned incentives between the private sector and the government, facilitating a pro-business environment with streamlined regulations, investment incentives, and sustainable development that benefits local communities and global investors alike.