The movement of fuel, imports and other essential commodities could face major disruption next week after professional truck drivers threatened a nationwide sit-in over what they describe as inadequate wage increases under the newly gazetted minimum wage structure.
Professional truck drivers in Malawi have threatened to ground their vehicles from June 8, 2026, after rejecting the newly gazetted minimum wage structure, demanding higher pay for international and long-distance heavy truck routes.
In a letter to the Ministry of Labour, Skills and Innovation, copied to the Ministry of Transport and Public Works, the Professional Drivers Union of Malawi (Produm) said members had rejected the revised wage structure and called for fresh consultations.
Under the new minimum wage schedule effective June 1, 2026, drivers on international routes operating vehicles weighing 30 tonnes and above will earn K410,375, up from K328,300. Local route drivers have been increased from K234,500 to K293,125, while drivers of vehicles below 30 tonnes now earn K175,875, up from K140,700.
Produm argues that even the K410,375 set for international route heavy truck drivers is insufficient given the rising cost of living and is demanding higher pay.
The union warned that if government fails to reopen consultations by June 5, 2026, members will embark on a nationwide sit-in, effectively disrupting transport operations across key routes.
“We have completely rejected the announced minimum wage and are demanding proper and meaningful consultations,” the union said.
Produm, which represents about 5,000 drivers, says its members are prepared to proceed with industrial action if their concerns are not addressed.
Transport operators have dismissed the demand as unrealistic. Road Transport Operators Association vice-president Almateen Mussa said the proposed wage increases would place an unsustainable burden on operators already struggling in a weak economic environment.
He added that while employers understand workers’ concerns, wage adjustments must remain aligned with business viability.
The Ministry of Labour has not yet issued a formal response as tensions rise ahead of the threatened strike deadline.
