On February 12, Malawi’s Secretary for Mining, Dr. J. C. N. Mkandawire, placed a ban on the export of all minerals – including gemstones – to allow the country’s Ministry of Mining “to streamline procedures that will ensure efficient and transparent processes.” Some reports had said that this ban was for 21 days, but the proclamation states only “until further notice.”
The Daily Times reports that the ministry “wants to enhance regulatory frameworks that benefit both the industry and the country’s economic growth.”
Retraction
However, according to outside sources, Lotus Resources Limited, the Malawi Ministry of Mining moved to clarify its position in relation to mineral exports with the issue of a further press release on the following day – February 13, 2025 (see below).
According to Lotus Resources, this retraction confirms that there is no temporary ban on mineral exports. “The action relates to the artisanal gemstone sector only and at this stage is restricted to the Mining Ministry not processing export licenses / permits for gemstones during a 21 day review process.”
According to further reports, these declarations suspend all gemstone mining Licenses, claiming undervalued gems are at issue.
As reported by Malawi News, Vice-President Michael Usi “has ordered the immediate suspension of all mining licenses in Malawi and demanded a thorough review of existing contracts amid concerns over undervalued gemstone exports that are costing the government millions in lost revenue.”
Watch the following report here from Firstpost Africa for more clarity:
It is interesting that all of this follows “revelations” that large quantities of precious gemstones are being exported “at suspiciously low prices.” It is reported that Vice President Usi is unhappy with the “alleged collusion between foreign nationals, including Germans and Chinese, and locals to source precious stones at low prices.”
Further reports on this subject note that “5,700 kg of gemstones were sold for just K2 million, while another 20,000 kg fetched only K15 million, raising serious concerns about potential revenue losses.” Of course, what is not noted in any of these reports is what gem materials, at what quantities and qualities are being exported. And we then question who is evaluating the exported gems to make these claims? Maybe this is what the government is going to examine during these 21 days.
The Roskin Gem News Report has had no reply from Malawi government officials at this time.
Tap here to read the original post in the Malawi Daily Telegraph.
