Malawi has taken a decisive step to reshape its mineral economy with a new executive order banning the export of raw, unprocessed minerals. Issued by President Peter Mutharika, the directive aims to ensure that the country’s vast mineral wealth contributes more directly to national development through local value addition. Effective from October 21, 2025, the order mandates that all minerals extracted within Malawi must undergo domestic processing before being sold internationally. This policy shift is designed to stimulate industrial growth, create jobs, and increase government revenue by capturing more of the value chain within the country.
The ban covers a wide range of minerals, including uranium, rutile from the Kasiya deposit, and rare earth elements from Kangankunde, resources that have long attracted foreign interest due to their strategic importance and high market value. By halting raw exports, Malawi seeks to reverse a longstanding trend where foreign companies benefit disproportionately from refining and manufacturing, while the country receives minimal returns. Government projections suggest that retaining and processing these minerals locally could save the economy up to $500 million annually, a significant boost for a nation striving to diversify its income sources.
This executive order aligns with Malawi’s broader vision of economic transformation and self-reliance. It reflects a growing regional movement among African nations to assert greater control over their natural resources and reduce dependency on external markets. However, the success of this policy will hinge on the government’s ability to enforce the ban effectively and develop the infrastructure necessary to support domestic mineral processing. This includes building refineries, training skilled labor, and attracting investment in downstream industries that can absorb and utilize the raw materials.
The announcement has sparked mixed reactions among stakeholders. Supporters hail it as a bold and necessary move to protect national interests and foster long-term economic resilience. Critics, however, warn of potential disruptions to existing export contracts and question whether Malawi’s industrial base is ready to handle the influx of raw materials. As the country navigates this transition, the government’s commitment to capacity building and transparent implementation will be crucial in ensuring that the policy delivers on its promise. If successful, Malawi’s ban on raw mineral exports could serve as a model for resource-rich nations seeking to maximize the benefits of their natural endowments.