The Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI) has called on the government to take what it describes as firm action against business owners who continue to close their shops in protest against the Malawi Revenue Authority’s Electronic Invoicing System (EIS).
The Malawi Revenue Authority recently began implementing the Electronic Invoicing System from May 1, replacing the Electronic Fiscal Devices, a move that has attracted resistance from some sections of the business community.
CDEDI Executive Director Sylvester Namiwa has commended MRA for introducing the electronic tax system, describing it as a progressive initiative aimed at improving tax compliance and transparency despite delays in its rollout.
However, the organisation has expressed concern over what it describes as efforts by some businesspeople to “hold the country at ransom” by shutting down their businesses in opposition to the system.
Namiwa warned that the continued closure of shops risks crippling the country’s already fragile economy and urged authorities to intervene before the situation deteriorates further.
CDEDI has since given protesting business owners up to Monday, May 11, 2026, to reopen their shops and allow MRA officials to assist them with registration and any technical challenges related to the system.
CDEDI has further warned that if authorities fail to act and some businesses continue resisting the EIS, the organisation will mobilise Malawians for nationwide peaceful demonstrations on Wednesday, May 13, to force the businesses to shut down permanently and leave the country.
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