EU advocates for improved business climate in Malawi
The European Union (EU), through its European Economic Diplomacy (EED) initiative in Malawi, says it wants to help create a conducive business environment for investment promotion.
In a statement following an EED networking event in Blantyre and Lilongwe in the past two weeks, EU Ambassador to Malawi Rune Skinnebach said the initiative is focusing on economic governance and improving the business climate in Malawi.
He said: “This is an activity where businesses have an important role to play in helping us to identify shortcomings of the regulatory framework, prioritise the economic dimension of our diplomatic and co-operation work in this country, and to get the messages that matter to the appropriate levels.
“It is about joint advocacy actions, making sure that government partners are fully aware of all the irritants that can reduce incentives to invest and affect the level playing field which is important to build confidence in Malawi as an investment destination.”
The implementing consultants, Ernst & Young (EY) country managing partner Chiwemi Chihana said the initiative is working on addressing the shortcomings in local institutional architecture that inhibit the growth of EU companies and allowing EU companies to take advantage of the growing market opportunities in Malawi.
The programme will also see the launch of the EED online networking app to ensure continued collaboration and dialogue among EU businesses following implementation of the project.
