Step by Step: How to Import Fertilizer
To import fertilizers into Malawi, begin by obtaining an import license from the Ministry of Trade, as mandated by the Control of Goods Act. Next, submit a pre-shipment sample of the fertilizer to the Malawi Bureau of Standards (MBS) for conformity assessment. This sample should be accompanied by a certificate of analysis and material safety data. Upon approval from the MBS, proceed with the importation process, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the Malawi Revenue Authority’s customs documentation requirements, which include providing a bill of lading, commercial invoice, packing list, and certificate of origin. Adhering to these procedures will facilitate the successful importation of fertilizers into Malawi.
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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
Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Water Development
• Secure an import permit from the Ministry of Industry and Trade.
• Complete Form P.R.1 to apply for an importation certificate from the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Water Development.
• The Ministry will verify your application with the Fertilizer Importers Association.
• Upon approval, pay a registration fee of MK150.00 to receive the import certificate.
• For further assistance, contact the Director of the Department of Agricultural Research & Technical Services at P.O. Box 30779, Lilongwe 3, Malawi, or via email at davidkamangira1@gmail.com.
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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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