Malawi
Malawi runs on tobacco and tea exports that reach markets worldwide, a lake covering roughly a fifth of the country, and a reputation for hospitality that gave it the name Warm Heart of Africa. This is where Malawian businesses meet the buyers, partners, and suppliers looking for them, inside the country and across the region.
List your businessKnown for a lake covering roughly a fifth of the country, and a tobacco-and-tea export economy reaching global markets.
Companies operating in Malawi
Showing verified listings across Lilongwe, Blantyre, Mzuzu, Zomba & Mangochi
Why Malawi keeps growing
- Grow one of the world’s most recognized tobacco crops
Tobacco still accounts for around half of Malawi’s export earnings, anchoring an entire supply chain from smallholder farms to global buyers.
- Draw business to a lake covering a fifth of the country
Lake Malawi supports fishing, tourism and transport industries that reach well beyond agriculture alone.
- Trade under SADC and COMESA rules
Malawi’s membership in both blocs gives businesses access to markets across Southern and Eastern Africa without separate barriers at every border.
- Main business languagesEnglish, Chichewa
- Leading exportTobacco (~50% of exports)
- Other cash cropsTea, sugar, cotton, groundnuts
- Notable landmarkLake Malawi
- Capital & largest cityLilongwe
- Commercial hubBlantyre
- Regional blocsSADC, COMESA
- CurrencyMalawian kwacha (MWK)
- Calling code+265
Starting a business in Malawi?
Registering a business in Malawi means working through CRIPC (Companies Registration and Intellectual Property Centre) / MBRS. This guide breaks down the real steps, approximate cost, and approximate timeline, so you know what to expect before you begin.
Steps, fees, and timelines are approximate and compiled from public 2026 guides to the official process. Confirm current details directly with the official portal