By Erik Chiputula
Malawi’s growing number of manufacturers and service providers are producing goods capable of competing on international markets, Deputy Minister of Industrialization, Business, Trade and Tourism Edgar Tembo said on Saturday night after touring exhibition pavilions at the 125th National Product Magazine (NPM) Mid-Year Awards in Lilongwe.
Tembo’s remarks captured the mood of an event that brought together entrepreneurs, manufacturers, innovators and industry leaders, many of whom showcased locally developed products and services that organisers believe reflect the country’s increasing industrial potential.
After interacting with exhibitors, the deputy minister said he was encouraged by the quality of products on display, describing them as evidence that Malawi is steadily building the foundations of an export-driven economy.
“What we have witnessed are products and services that are meeting international standards while satisfying local consumers. This gives us confidence that Malawi is moving in the right direction towards building an export-led economy,” he said.
The awards ceremony, held at the Bingu International Convention Centre, recognised outstanding contributions in business, agriculture, entrepreneurship, innovation and media while providing a platform for networking and collaboration among key players in the private sector.
Tembo said industrialisation remains a critical pillar of Malawi 2063 and reiterated government’s commitment to creating an environment that supports business growth, investment and export diversification.
For many exhibitors, the event offered more than recognition. It provided an opportunity to place local products before policymakers, investors and potential business partners, highlighting the innovation emerging from different sectors of the economy.
National Product Magazine Chief Executive Officer Arthur Steven Chinyamula said the awards were intentionally designed to accommodate businesses of all sizes, ensuring that small and medium enterprises receive the same visibility as larger corporations.
He said this year’s event placed particular emphasis on agriculture, which remains central to Malawi’s efforts to reduce import dependence and generate foreign exchange earnings.
Chinyamula urged manufacturers to strengthen partnerships with local farmers by sourcing raw materials domestically, a move he said would boost production while creating more opportunities across agricultural value chains.
“This event brings together small, medium and large enterprises because every player has a role in building the economy. We are also encouraging industries to work closely with farmers so that local raw materials can support local manufacturing and exports,” he said.
The ceremony also honoured individuals excelling in the media industry. Among the recipients was The Maravi Post Country Director Lloyd M’bwana, who received the first runner-up award in online reporting.
As businesses displayed their products and success stories, the evening offered a glimpse into a growing confidence within Malawi’s private sector, a belief that locally produced goods and services can increasingly compete beyond the country’s borders and contribute to a stronger export-led economy.
