Non-Tariff Barriers

Complaint

Complaint number

NTB-001-127  

NTB Type

8.8. Issues related to transit  

Complaint

Professional Drivers Union in Malawi are concerned with reduced transit limit time to 21hrs by Mozambique - Initially the transit time was 72hrs. This change brings about healthy and safety concern to drivers. Drivers are concerned on road conditions, mechanical faults and time to rest on the road which makes it difficult to meet this newly set time limit. They opt for the 72hrs as it were because this time limit gave an allowance to delays encountered in transit and it was good for safe driving.  

Progress update note

During the SADC Regional Meeting on Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs) held from 14–15 April 2026, the National Focal Points from Malawi and Mozambique convened to discuss this long-outstanding matter. During the discussions, it was clarified that, under Mozambican regulations, entry into the country for transit cargo is expected to be followed by exit through the nearest designated border post. However, the overall allowable transit time is 21 hours, taking into account potential operational considerations. It was further noted that in instances where cargo experiences unforeseen delays, operational challenges, or where the driver requires medical attention, the prescribed timeframe may be extended. In such cases, extensions are granted provided that the transporter communicates the circumstances to their respective clearing agents in advance. In this case, Malawi will en  

Policy or regulatory NTB

No 

Location

Mozambique: Beira Route (Other)  

Reporting Country or Region

Malawi  

Country specific trade issue

No  

Date of incident

2023-07-25  

Status

In process  

Product Description

Computer-assisted translation

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• French
• Portuguese

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Total value

0  

Date reported

2023-07-27 11:40  

Modified

2023-08-04 11:10