In a bid to address food security concerns, Malawi has implemented restrictions on maize exports, according to the trade ministry's announcement on Thursday. This measure adheres to a 2018 law aimed at protecting essential goods, including maize, from leaving the country amidst fears of insufficient local supply.

The U.S. Famine Early Warning Systems Network reports that Malawi's maize harvest this year amounted to 2.9 million metric tons, significantly below the national requirement of 3.7 million tons. Consequently, nearly four million people face risk of hunger until the next harvest in March 2026, as highlighted in an October government report.

With maize prices surging by over 50% over the past year, aid organizations, including the World Food Programme, are initiating relief effort

See Full Page