Malawi's central bank demands exporters repatriate $16.56M by Jan. 31, 2026, or face penalties.

The Reserve Bank of Malawi has set 31 January 2026 as the final deadline for 25 exporters to repatriate $16.56 million in unremitted export earnings, with non-compliance risking legal action and fines up to 150% of the amount. The central bank also introduced new rules for diaspora accounts, allowing Malawians abroad to open foreign currency accounts with streamlined services and cross-border transaction exemptions. Additionally, tourism operators must obtain RBM authorization by 28 February 2026 to handle foreign currency, including repatriating all tourist-related earnings and submitting monthly reports.