The Malawi International Arbitration Centre (MIAC) is set to officially open on March 21, 2025, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to improve its business environment and access to justice.
The opening ceremony, to be held at Sunbird Mount Soche Hotel in Blantyre, will coincide with the inaugural Malawi International Dispute Days Conference.
Established in September 2023 as a joint venture between the Malawi Law Society (MLS) and the Malawi Confederation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (MCCCI), MIAC is a private-sector-led initiative designed to provide a neutral and independent facility for resolving disputes through arbitration, mediation, and other alternative methods. These processes offer efficient alternatives to court litigation, helping businesses achieve faster, more amicable resolutions to commercial and investment disputes.
MIAC stands out as a legally recognized private institution that promotes collaboration with state parties and international organizations. The Centre’s goals include institutionalizing both domestic and international arbitration, boosting investor confidence, and positioning Malawi as a regional hub for dispute resolution.
The journey leading up to the official opening has seen several key developments. In June 2021, Malawi acceded to the New York Convention, laying the groundwork for its integration into global arbitration practices.
This was followed by the passage of the International Arbitration Act in 2023, a major step in adopting modern arbitration frameworks. Additionally, a landmark ruling by the Malawi Supreme Court of Appeal in March 2024 upheld the independence of arbitration from judicial intervention, further solidifying MIAC’s role.
The Malawi International Dispute Days Conference, themed “Resolving Disputes, Unlocking Opportunities: Malawi’s Journey in Commercial Justice,” will feature high-profile discussions on arbitration’s role in fostering economic growth and resolving disputes in key sectors such as banking, energy, mining, and technology.
The Centre will also unveil its unique rules and procedures designed to manage both domestic and international arbitration effectively.
In collaboration with international law firm Trowers & Hamlins LLP, the Arbitration Foundation of Southern Africa (AFSA-SADC Division), and other key partners, the conference aims to showcase Malawi as a destination for sophisticated dispute resolution and international trade.
Following the morning’s opening ceremony, three expert-led panel discussions will take place, focusing on various methods of dispute resolution and their application in Malawi’s economic sectors. These discussions will be followed by a plenary session and a rapporteur’s overview of the conference highlights.
MIAC’s establishment is a significant step forward in fostering a conducive business environment and offering solutions to commercial disputes in Malawi and across Africa. With its official opening, MIAC is expected to deliver efficient, accessible, and impartial dispute resolution services that will benefit businesses and support Malawi’s economic ambitions.
