The Ministry of Commerce and Industry issues import and export licenses. It frequently reviews the lists of goods subject to licensing. Licenses are valid for six months, but may be extended. Trade Taxes 44. The Government's policy to shift taxes from international to domestic sources is gradually reducing domestic protection through tariffs.
Import duties vary according to product and country of origin.
Malawi has bilateral trade agreements with South Africa and Zimbabwe, both of which allow duty-free entrance of Malawi products. In 1998, the Government eliminated export taxes on tobacco, sugar, tea and coffee. Customs Valuation 45. Partial shipments below this value limit are subject to inspection if the total value of the goods under the contract covering such shipments exceeds USD 2,000. The contract, in effect since June 1996, has a WTO PSI agreement appended to it.