Local firms sign deals with Indian investors

Malawian firms have clinched deals with their Indian partners in fertiliser distribution, renewable energy and agro-processing following Business-to-Business (B2B) meetings in Blantyre, signalling progress towards unlocking investment. Facilitated by Malawi Confederation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (MCCCI) last week, the meetings created a platform for direct interaction between Malawian and Indian firms, enabling the exchange of ideas, exploration of joint ventures and identification of practical investment opportunities. One of the major highlights was the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Agriche Company Limited and Indian fertiliser manufacturer Siesto Green.

Under the agreement, Siesto Green will provide technical training to Agriche Company Limited personnel and support the company to adopt Siesto Green farming technologies and train farmers working under Agriche’s network. In an interview on Thursday, Agriche managing director Mwayiwawo Kukada said the partnership will also enable the firm to distribute Siesto Green biofertiliser products locally under a margin-sharing arrangement, strengthening access to modern and sustainable agricultural inputs. “The agreement will enhance productivity among farmers while supporting Malawi’s transition towards climate-smart and sustainable agriculture,” he said.

The B2B meetings also attracted participation from Nico Capital Limited, a subsidiary of Malawi Stock Exchange-listed Nico Holdings plc and Agricultural Development and Marketing Corporation (Admarc) Limited, who held discussions with Indian firms specialising in fertiliser production and other key sectors. Nico Capital Limited chief executive officer (CEO) Misheck Esau said in an interview that they are currently in discussions and are expected to sign an MoU with one of the Indian companies. MCCCI CEO Daisy Kambalame earlier said the chamber was encouraged by the progress made during the engagements and emphasised the importance of partnerships to translate into real economic benefits for the country.

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“Our focus is to ensure that these discussions translate into real partnerships, increased trade, investment flows and opportunities that directly benefit Malawian businesses and the broader economy,” she said. Minister of Industrialisation, Business, Trade and Tourism Simon Itaye, who opened the meetings on Tuesday, said B2B meetings reflect Malawi’s commitment to creating strategic partnerships that support industrial growth and economic transformation. Leader of the Indian delegation, Vikas Agrawal, said Indian companies are keen to explore Malawi’s investment potential and establish mutually beneficial partnerships. The partnerships are also expected to enhance technology transfer, improve agricultural productivity and create new business opportunities across multiple sectors of the economy.

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