Petroleum Importers Limited plays a very critical role in Malawi considering that fuel is a
strategic commodity which drives many sectors of the economy. The availability of fuel is a
prerequisite for economic growth by providing the lifeblood that drives business and social
economic activities in the country.
The bulk of our fuel imports (approximately 85%) is hauled by Malawian transporters and
we have seen local transporters leveraging on this relationship and growing their
investments in the transportation industry.

PIL acts as a collection agent for levies and taxes on behalf of the Malawi government
ensuring these are remitted timely to facilitate road maintenance and upgrades and rural
electrification. PIL contributes significantly to government finances through the collection of
customs and excise duties on fuel imports which are remitted to Malawi Revenue Authority
every fortnight. Our average month bill for customs and excise duties is in the region of
MK3 billion to MK4 billion.

In terms of import financing, PIL mostly relies on support form all the major commercial
banks in Malawi for the issuance of import letters of credit. Therefore, the company has
developed strong business relationships with all the major banks in the country.
The company’s use of the Open Tender System (OTS) for fuel importation has proven highly
efficient, delivering significant cost savings for Malawi. Its transparent and objective
framework attracts reputable international petroleum suppliers. All supply contracts are
reviewed and approved by the Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA) prior to
commencement.