Malawians Divided on Trade Liberalisation as Awareness of AfCFTA Remains Low
A new Afrobarometer survey reveals that while most Malawians support greater African influence in global decision-making, awareness of the African Continental Free Trade Area remains strikingly low.
The survey, conducted in 2024, found that 69% of Malawians believe African countries should have more say in international bodies like the United Nations. However, only 12% of citizens report being familiar with the AfCFTA, which Malawi ratified in 2021 as part of its strategy to integrate into global markets and reduce poverty.
On trade policy, 60% of respondents see economic benefits in removing barriers to international trade, yet 38% argue the government should limit trade to protect local producers. When asked about preferred trading partners, 48% favour global trade, while 26% prefer trading with all African countries and 13% with Southern African nations only.
The survey also measured perceptions of foreign influence. Between 40% and 47% of Malawians view the political and economic influence of SADC, the African Union, the United States, China, and the European Union as positive, with negative ratings considerably lower. Views of Russia’s influence are split, with 23% positive and 21% negative.
On regional integration, 52% of citizens are satisfied that Malawi’s interests are adequately recognised by the African Union, and 49% feel the same about SADC. Malawi has been an active member of both organisations, chairing SADC summits in 2013/2014 and 2021/2022, and holding the COMESA chair twice.
The country’s trade relationships extend beyond Africa. China has supported multiple infrastructure projects in Malawi and recently removed all import tariffs on goods from 53 African countries, including Malawi. In 2025, China wrote off Malawi’s $20 million debt.
However, recent protectionist measures have complicated regional trade dynamics. In March 2025, Malawi’s Ministry of Trade and Industry banned imports of key agricultural and manufactured goods to protect local industries. The move prompted Tanzania to retaliate by banning Malawian agricultural products.
Regarding the Russia-Ukraine war, 58% of Malawians are aware of the conflict. Among those informed, 58% believe Malawi should remain neutral.
The findings suggest that while Malawians generally support regional and continental integration, practical awareness and engagement with initiatives like the AfCFTA remain limited, even as the country navigates complex trade relationships with both regional neighbours and global powers.
