Malawi Tightens Export Controls on Precious Minerals
Can the Resource-Rich Southern African State Sanitize Its Mining Sector?
On February 12, Malawi’s Ministry of Mining suspended all gemstone and precious mineral exports and halted new export licenses, effective immediately. The government confirmed a 21-day review period to revise sector regulations. While the ban primarily targets artisanal gemstones, broader mineral exports—such as uranium—remain unaffected.
Amid significant foreign aid cuts, the Malawian government stated that its goal is to streamline and regulate the mining sector, curb corruption, boost productivity, and stimulate economic growth.