Malawi’s traders have agreed to reopen their businesses after reaching an agreement with the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) regarding the Electronic Invoicing System (EIS).
The breakthrough came after a meeting between MRA officials, led by Commissioner General Felix Tambulasi, and representatives of the Small Scale Business Importers and Exporters Association of Malawi in Blantyre.
Association chairperson Robert Nachamba said MRA addressed most concerns that had led to the shutdown, advising traders to fully reopen and offering support for those facing challenges with the new tax system.
The protests, which began on May 1, 2026, were sparked by VAT-registered businesses rejecting the EIS, citing expenses and complexity, particularly in declaring stock values and complying with electronic invoicing procedures.
Despite resistance, MRA maintained the EIS rollout was mandatory, aiming to improve tax administration, transparency, and revenue collection.
The Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) has called for wider consultations and a review of the implementation process, warning of worsening economic tensions and eroded public trust.
