Malawi’s music industry hits a sour note

Malawi’s music industry is in turmoil after the Producers and Audio Engineering Association of Malawi proposed a contentious fee hike, setting standard studio sessions at K1 million, igniting debate over affordability, legality and the future of emerging talent. While producers argue the hike reflects rising costs and years of undervaluation, artists, executives and regulators warn it could stifle creativity, push musicians across the border and expose the sector to legal risk. “This adjustment allows us to sustain investments in advanced technology, facility improvements and premium services,” the statement reads.

“Producers are paid a once-off fee, yet the work does not reflect the current cost of equipment,” he said. “In the past, we could replace studio monitors after a few sessions. That is no longer possible.

Today, even low-tier equipment can cost about K4 million.” However, regional comparisons raise questions. In Zambia, studio fees range between K17 000 and K30 000 per hour, or roughly 2 000 Zambian Kwacha per full track. In Tanzania, producers charge about $30 per hour, while in South Africa, rates range from R2 000 to R8 000 per song depending on the studio.

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On global platforms like SoundBetter, rates can be as low as R7 000 for a four-song mixtape. These figures suggest that even in wealthier markets, higher fees tend to apply only to premium studios rather than as industry-wide standards. This has triggered a deeper question: Is it legal to set uniform industry prices?

Competition and Fair Trading Commission (CFTC) spokesperson Innocent Helema said Section 27(1)(b) of the Competition and Fair Trading Act prohibits trade associations from recommending prices. “Competition policy is premised on prices being dictated by market forces,” he said. “Agreeing to charge the same price is a serious offence as it stifles innovation and competition.” He warned the move could harm the arts sector by pricing out emerging musicians and driving artists to record in countries like Zambia, Tanzania or South Africa.

If found in violation, the association and individual studios could face penalties of up to 10 percent of annual turnover and be ordered to abandon uniform pricing. Renowned producer BFB defended the proposed increase, arguing that producers have long been undervalued even as artists earn millions from performances. “Artists are charging over K8 million per show, while producers are paid once-off fees that cannot replace even a single piece of equipment,” he said. “We cannot keep making songs for K250 000 and expect high-quality work.”

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