Within the framework of the EU-WCO Rules of Origin Africa Programme, the World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a diagnostic mission for the Malawi Revenue Authority. The mission took place in Blantyre from 19 to 23 September 2022 and was facilitated by two experts from the WCO Secretariat.
The Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) had requested technical assistance to analyse the existing origin management in Malawi and make recommendations for its reform and modernization. During the mission, MRA officials working in the areas of origin, risk management, post clearance audit, legal affairs, human resources and training carried out an evaluation of the present origin infrastructure and practices in Malawi and discussed how to improve and enhance the origin management.
The participants drafted an Action Plan on Origin, including recommendations and activities, structured as five key areas to assist the MRA to enhance trade facilitation, improve compliance and procedures, sensitize the private sector, further develop internal training activities and optimize human resources. The Action Plan was presented to the Commissioner of Customs and Excise, Mr. Fredrick Mpeusa, along with the Deputy Commissioners for Business Analysis and Enforcement and Operations, and the Senior Manager Origin. They welcomed the recommendations, noting that they were a clear statement about the importance of Origin and the need for continuous improvement.
Mr. John S. Biziwick, Commissioner General of Malawi Revenue Authority, welcomed the observations and recommendations shared at the end of the mission and indicated that the Action Plan will be of great help in the reforms being undertaken by the MRA and in supporting the implementation of the AfCFTA and other free trade agreements.
The EU-WCO Rules of Origin Africa Programme will continue its collaboration with the MRA to support further capacity building and technical assistance in the implementation of the Action Plan.
For further information please contact EU-WCORoOAfrica.Program@wcoomd.org