The Indigenous Businesses Association of Malawi (IBAM) has stated that restrictions on public gatherings which have affected the holding of trade fairs in the country have left Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) with no platform to showcase their products.

IBAM president told YONECO FM online that the development has limited the market for MSMEs but he encouraged them to ensure they are utilizing National Economic Empowerment Forum (NEEF) loans to keep their businesses from subsiding.

“It is unfortunate that trade fairs are not taking place because that is where we can assess what products are being produced countrywide.

“It is of particular importance to think deep, how can we grow our businesses in this pandemic otherwise these are tough business times worldwide,” said Mlombwa.

He expressed optimism that if MSMEs utilize this break from trade fairs  to improve their products  they can  potentially compete on the international market.