BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Shops in Limbe, a business hub in Blantyre, Malawi, remained closed on Thursday as traders continued their protest against the Malawi Revenue Authority’s (MRA) planned Electronic Invoicing System (EIS).
The shutdown follows a January 29, 2026, protest where traders presented a petition to MRA, warning of a shutdown if their concerns were ignored.
Chairperson for the shop owners, Robert Nachamba, confirmed the closure, stating that it will continue until MRA addresses their concerns.
“We will not open our shops until MRA addresses our concerns,” he said, adding that traders are working with police to ensure security.
The traders are protesting against the EIS, which they claim will increase their tax burden and expose them to heavy taxation, penalties, and possible harassment.
They argue that the system is not suitable for small businesses and will require them to reveal sensitive business information.
MRA had initially planned to roll out the EIS on February 1, 2026, but the traders’ protest has led to a delay. The authority has assured traders that it will respond to their concerns soon.
The protest highlights the growing frustration among small-scale traders in Malawi, who feel overburdened and under-supported by the government.
The situation remains tense, with traders vowing to continue their protest until their demands are met.
