Malawi and Tanzania have taken a major step forward in strengthening diplomatic and trade ties following a successful bilateral meeting in Dodoma. Malawi’s Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Sam Kawale, who was part of the delegation, described the outcome as “a triumph for diplomacy and dialogue.”
The high-level talks, held on May 2, 2025, brought together officials from both governments to address recent trade tensions that had strained cross-border commerce. The resolution marks a return to the long-standing tradition of cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.
Trade Restrictions Lifted
At the heart of the discussions was Malawi’s Control of Goods (Import and Export) Order issued in March 2025, which had restricted certain imports. In response, Tanzania had imposed a ban on Malawian plant and plant products on April 23. However, following frank and friendly talks, Tanzania agreed to lift its restriction, while Malawi committed to easing trade flows through a new administrative instrument designed to smoothen import and export processes.
Reaffirming Strong Bilateral Ties
The meeting celebrated the enduring brotherhood between Malawi and Tanzania, with both sides commending the leadership of President Lazarus Chakwera and President Samia Suluhu Hassan. Their shared vision for regional integration and peaceful cooperation was praised as central to the successful outcome.
Harmonizing Trade Standards
A key result of the meeting was an agreement to develop shared procedures for sanitary and phytosanitary measures. These common standards will help ensure the safety of traded goods while aligning with regional and international best practices, further facilitating fair trade.
Boosting Cross-Border Commerce
The two countries also reaffirmed their intention to finalize and sign the long-awaited Simplified Trade Regime Agreement by May 30, 2025. This follows commitments made during the 6th Session of the Joint Permanent Commission in February and is expected to significantly ease trade for small-scale traders across the Malawi-Tanzania border.
Minister Kawale hailed the meeting as a model for resolving disputes through dialogue rather than division. “This milestone shows that when countries choose engagement over estrangement, we build bridges that lead to shared prosperity,” he said.
The warm reception in Dodoma and the spirit of mutual respect throughout the talks were seen as further proof of the strong foundations underpinning Malawi-Tanzania relations.
As both nations look ahead, this agreement stands as a testament to the power of diplomacy — and a blueprint for peaceful problem-solving across the continent.
