Trade Minister Partridge finally tours Illovo Sugar Malawi to assess availability of sugar on the market

Minister of Industrialization, Business, Trade and Tourism, George Partridge, on Wednesday toured Illovo Sugar Malawi Limited’s Nchalo Factory to assess the availability of sugar on the market and gain first-hand insight into the operational challenges facing one of the country’s key economic players.

Speaking after the visit, Partridge said the tour was prompted by the need for government to make informed policy decisions grounded in the realities of industry operations and confirm sugar availability on the market.

The minister noted that discussions with Illovo management highlighted persistent challenges, including theft and the effects of climate change on production.

Partridge also addressed concerns around sugar hoarding and smuggling, saying government is working closely with the company to tighten distribution systems and enforce licensing rules.

Illovo Managing Director Ronald Ngwira welcomed the minister’s visit, describing it as timely and constructive. He added that the company is also grappling with limited access to foreign exchange at a time when it is undertaking critical maintenance works.

On sugar availability, Ngwira assured the public that stocks are sufficient to meet demand in the coming months.

The visit forms part of government’s broader engagement with the private sector aimed at stabilising supply chains, addressing market distortions and safeguarding key commodities critical to the national economy.