A study by Malawi Agricultural Policy Advancement and Transformation Agenda (Mwapata) has revealed that the agricultural sector in Malawi is stunning its own growth, as the sectors laws and regulations are outdated.

After the study investigated the causes of challenges in programs, policies and strategies implemented in the agricultural sector, it concluded that the lack of regulatory framework [laws] to support the implementation of the policies was also identified as another factor constraining the implementation of some policies and programs.

During a two-day Tobacco Industry Seminar in Lilongwe last year, it was revealed that Capital Hill is reviewing all statutory levies governing the tobacco sector. The then Minister of Agriculture, Irrigation and Water Development Kondwani Nankhumwa, announced the development stating that the exercise is a result of tobacco growers that are not benefiting from the dwindling levels of profitability, due to the levies that are imposed on them. While various farmers have bemoaned the lack of structured markets, laws that will protect them against exploitation have to be the first priority.