Malawi hopes its Single Digital Portal will open up international trade opportunities for local businesses.

To automate trade activities and expand Malawi’s international market reach, the country’s Confederation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry last week launched a digital platform, called Single Digital Portal.

The platform is designed to modernise trade processes and provides an online space to local producers to showcase their products to international buyers.

In addition to providing a marketplace for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), it also includes digital access to administration features including online applications and issuance of trade documents, such as Certificates of Origin.

Minister of Trade and Industry Vitumbiko Mumba said: “This portal will significantly reduce bureaucracy in trade by enabling digital applications for licenses and trade documents. The world is going digital, and Malawi cannot afford to be left behind.”

Wisely Phiri, president, Confederation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry, said the platform aligns with the organisation’s digital transformation strategy, which runs until 2026.

“This platform allows manufacturers to obtain certificates of origin online, making it easier for them to export goods and attract international buyers. Previously, businesses had to visit our offices physically, but now everything is streamlined digitally,” Phiri said.

The system includes identity verification through a partnership with the National Registration Bureau (NRB), which ensure that only verified businesses and individuals can transact on the platform.

To encourage adoption, MCCCI has slashed registration fees by 50% for businesses applying online.