By Suleman Chitera
A group of shop owners and business operators in Malawi are reportedly planning to obtain a court injunction aimed at stopping the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) from enforcing the newly introduced Electronic Invoicing System (EIS).
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The development comes amid growing tension between traders and the tax authority following the rollout of the EIS on May 1, 2026. The new system replaced the Electronic Fiscal Devices (EFDs) and is designed to improve tax compliance and enhance transparency in business transactions.
However, some business owners argue that the transition was rushed and has created operational challenges, especially for small and medium-scale enterprises.
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According to some traders, the EIS requires expensive equipment, stable internet connectivity, and technical expertise which many businesses are struggling to afford. Others claim the system has disrupted daily operations and reduced business efficiency.
Several shop owners in major trading centres, including Lilongwe and Blantyre, have continued closing their shops in protest, demanding that MRA suspend implementation until further consultations are conducted.
Sources within the business community say legal consultations are already underway, with traders seeking an injunction that would temporarily restrain MRA from enforcing mandatory compliance with the system.
“We are not refusing to pay tax, but the implementation process has been unfair and difficult for many businesses,” said one trader who preferred anonymity.
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Meanwhile, MRA has maintained that the Electronic Invoicing System is a crucial reform aimed at modernising tax administration and reducing tax evasion. The authority says the system will improve efficiency, accountability, and revenue collection.
Government officials have also defended the initiative, arguing that digital tax systems are being adopted globally and are necessary for economic growth and improved public service delivery.
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The standoff between traders and authorities is expected to intensify as businesses push for legal intervention while government insists the system must remain in force.
If granted, the injunction could temporarily halt the implementation of the Electronic Invoicing System pending court determination of the matter.