Malawi could earn $2bn from SMEs – The Times Group

Malawi’s $2 Billion Opportunity: Harnessing the Power of SMEs to Fuel Economic Growth

Post was last updated: October 24, 2025

Key Business Points

  • Malawi’s SMEs have the potential to generate up to $2 billion annually if each of the estimated 1.6 million small and medium enterprises exports goods worth just $100 per month, according to Standard Bank Malawi Chief Executive Phillip Madinga.
  • Export-oriented businesses can benefit from this opportunity by exploring international markets and developing strategies to increase their exports, which can contribute to Malawi’s economic growth.
  • Access to finance and market information are crucial for SMEs to take advantage of export opportunities, and businesses should seek out resources and partnerships that can help them navigate international trade, such as nkhanza yamakonomi (economic empowerment) programs.

As the Malawian economy continues to grow, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are playing an increasingly important role in driving economic development. With an estimated 1.6 million SMEs operating in the country, these businesses have the potential to make a significant impact on Malawi’s trade balance. According to Standard Bank Malawi Chief Executive Phillip Madinga, if each of these SMEs were to export goods worth just $100 per month, the country could generate up to $2 billion annually. This projection highlights the export potential of Malawian businesses and the need for msokosoko waujezego (competitive markets) to support their growth.

To achieve this goal, SMEs will need to develop export-oriented business strategies, which can involve identifying international markets, developing products that meet global demand, and building partnerships with foreign buyers. Kuwongolera kwa mitundu (market research) and kupeza masoko (market penetration) are essential steps in this process. Additionally, SMEs will need to access finance and market information to support their export activities, which can be a challenge for many businesses in Malawi. Nkhanza yamakonomi (economic empowerment) programs and chilemba chamasoko (market access) initiatives can help address these challenges and provide SMEs with the resources they need to succeed in international trade.

The potential for Malawian SMEs to generate significant export revenue is a major opportunity for the country’s economic growth. By supporting the growth of export-oriented businesses, Malawi can diversify its economy, reduce its dependence on imports, and create new jobs and income opportunities for its citizens. As the country’s business community looks to the future, it is clear that export-led growth will be a key driver of Malawi’s economic development, and SMEs will play a critical role in achieving this goal. With the right support and resources, Malawian businesses can thamangitsa (prosper) in international markets and contribute to the country’s kusintha kwa uchumi (economic growth).

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Vanessa Banda
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