Malawi

Malawi is not a Party to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.

Smoke Free Places

There are no restrictions on smoking; smoking is allowed in indoor public places, indoor workplaces, and on public transport.

Tobacco Advertising, Promotion and Sponsorship

There are no restrictions on tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship; all tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship is allowed.

Tobacco Packaging and Labeling

Tobacco product packaging and labeling is not regulated; health warnings and messages are not required.

Cigarette Contents and Disclosures

The law does not grant the authority to regulate the contents of cigarettes. The law does not require that manufacturers and importers disclose to government authorities information on the contents and emissions of their products.

Sales Restrictions 

The law does not restrict the sale of tobacco products via vending machines or the internet, nor are there restrictions on the sale of single cigarettes or small packets of cigarettes. The law does not specify a minimum age for the purchase of tobacco products.

Roadmap to Tobacco Control Legislation

There is no legislation in Malawi implementing any tobacco control policies. The Tobacco Act regulates tobacco growing and wholesale buying, selling, and exporting of tobacco. Provisions of the Consumer Protection Act potentially could be used to prohibit false and misleading tobacco advertising and require health warnings and messages on tobacco products; however, there are no regulations that implement the Act in this manner.

Review Status

This country’s legal measures were reviewed by our legal staff. No in-country lawyers or tobacco control experts reviewed our analysis.