Agriculture is the backbone of Malawi’ s economy, contributing approximately 22% of the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP), 65% of total employment, and over 80% of export earnings (OECD, 2023). The sector supports the livelihoods of nearly 80% of the population, most of whom are smallholder farmers cultivating less than one hectare of land. Despite this centrality, Malawi’ s agriculture remains predominantly subsistence-based, rain-fed, and vulnerable to climate shocks, low productivity and limited market integration. Rice is emerging as a high-potential crop within this landscape. It is one of the few staples that offer dual value: ensuring domestic food security while providing viable trade opportunities. Nationally, rice is cultivated by over 150,000 smallholder farmers across lowland areas such as Karonga, Nkhotakota, Salima and Zomba, with production concentrated during the wet season. Malawi produces approximately 140,000 metric tons of rice annually, of which about 90% is grown by smallholders (Malawi Government, 2024)
UNLOCKING THE VALUE OF MALAWI’S RICE SECTOR: MARKETING, TRADE AND VALUE ADDITION: 2025 RDT POLICY BRIEF
