"Malawi Revenue Authority strengthens trade partnership with new AEO licences

Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) has awarded Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) licences to seven new operators, as part of efforts to facilitate legitimate trade and strengthen compliance with customs requirements.

Speaking during an AEO Stakeholder Meeting in Blantyre, MRA Commissioner General Felix Tambulasi said the programme represents an important partnership between the Authority and the business community.

"This partnership is built on trust and compliance and a shared interest in making legitimate trade more efficient, predictable and secure," he said.

According to Tambulasi, the programme enables MRA to facilitate compliant businesses while strengthening its management of customs risks, with operators benefiting from greater predictability and efficiency in the movement of goods.

"I am pleased that this initiative has grown to 22 operators, comprising 19 importers and three exporters. This growth demonstrates the value that businesses place on the programme and the confidence that has been built between MRA and participating operators," he said.

While awarding the new operators, Tambulasi urged existing AEOs to continue maintaining high compliance standards, including accurate declarations, adherence to customs requirements and timely payment of government revenue.

MRA Commissioner of Customs and Excise Patrick Kachingwe said AEO status provides compliant importers and exporters with simplified customs procedures, including reduced controls on their goods and more flexible arrangements for settling customs taxes.

"Because they are trusted players in the supply chain, we apply minimal controls on their goods. In some cases, their goods are not subjected to the same level of examination that normally applies to other importers," Kachingwe said.

He said the programme, which was initiated in 2018, continues to strengthen collaboration between MRA and the business community by facilitating efficient trade and promoting compliance with customs requirements.

Speaking on behalf of the operators, CFAO Mobility Risk and Governance Manager Sylvia Lwinga said the company had benefited significantly from being an AEO, including receiving priority treatment when its cargo arrives at ports, with assigned officers helping to ensure efficient processing.

"Before participating in this programme, it would take significant time to process cars and get them to our customers.

"However, since becoming part of this initiative, we have benefited significantly and are now able to reach our customers more effectively," she said.