Step by Step: How to Import Animal or Animal Products
To import animals or animal products into Malawi, you need to obtain a permit from the Department of Animal Health and Livestock Development (DAHLD). The process involves submitting a formal request to the Director of DAHLD, specifying the types of animals or animal products you plan to import. A fee of MWK 10,000.00 is applicable. Once your application is submitted, DAHLD conducts a pre-inspection, which includes a background check on disease outbreaks in the exporting country. The permit is issued based on the findings of the inspection report.
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Step 1
Malawi Business Registration System (MBRS)
• Visit the Malawi Business Registration System (MBRS) website and create an account using your national ID number.
• Log in to your account and complete the online application form for business registration.
• Pay the required registration fees online through the provided payment options.
• Submit the application and wait for approval from the relevant authorities.
• Once approved, receive a notification and download the registration certificate in PDF format from your account.
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Step 2
Malawi Revenue Authority
• Download and complete the taxpayer registration form from the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) website or obtain it from an MRA office.
• Submit the completed form along with supporting documents, such as the business registration certificate, owner’s identification (e.g., national ID or passport), and proof of business address.
• The MRA verifies the submitted information and may request additional details if necessary.
• Once the registration is approved, the MRA issues a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), which is required for tax compliance and correspondence with the authority.
• Registration for taxes is free of charge.
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Step 3
Department of Animal Health and Livestock Development
• Submit a written application to the Director of Animal Health and Livestock Development at Private Bag 2096, Lilongwe, Malawi.
• Clearly state the specific animals or animal products you intend to import.
• Pay a fee of MWK 10,000.00 for the application.
• A pre-inspection process will be conducted, including a background check on disease outbreaks in the exporting country.
• Inspectors will prepare and submit a report to the Director based on their findings.
• If the review is satisfactory, the permit will be issued.
• The outcome will be communicated via email or phone.
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Step 4
MRA Customs
• Importers must first register with the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) to acquire a TPIN for tax purposes.
• Importers should hire a licensed customs clearing agent to handle the import declaration process.
• Gather necessary documents, including the commercial invoice, bill of lading/airway bill, packing list, and any applicable permits or certificates.
• The customs agent submits an import declaration electronically through the ASYCUDA World system, providing details of the imported goods.
• MRA Customs assesses the declaration, and the importer must pay applicable duties, taxes, and fees based on the declared goods.
• Customs may conduct physical or documentary inspections to verify compliance with import regulations.
• Once all duties are paid and inspections are cleared, the goods are released from customs for delivery to the importer.
• Depending on the type of goods, importers may need to obtain approvals from other regulatory bodies before customs clearance is finalized.
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