Second-Hand Tyre Traders Forced to Import from South Africa Due to Affordable Prices
As the demand for affordable tyres continues to grow, it remains to be seen whether the Malawian market can adapt to these changing dynamics.
Lilongwe, Malawi - Second-hand tyre traders in Malawi are being compelled to import their goods from as far as South Africa due to the significantly lower prices in the region, writes Christopher Jimu.
Merchants in Lilongwe, home to arguably the largest second-hand tyre market in the country, lamented the difficulty of acquiring tyres locally, citing their high cost and poor condition.
In light of this challenge, many traders have turned to neighbouring countries such as Zambia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa to source their stock.
Elesia Mbumba, a 39-year-old entrepreneur who entered the tyre trade in 2009, highlighted the impact of the depreciating local currency Kwacha on the business, making it increasingly difficult to sustain operations.
Mbumba expressed her gratitude for the success she has achieved, stating, "I started small, but I am moving in the right direction, and there is a lot that I have achieved. Being a woman in this male-dominated field, I just thank God that I am making positive strides."
Peter Dailesi, who ventured into the second-hand tyre business in 1998, shared his success story, revealing that he has managed to build a house and send his children to reputable schools.
Dailesi explained, "On a good day, I make K20,000, and I go to Zambia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa to import second-hand tyres. The future of my family is very promising. No complaints whatsoever."
Dziunde Mbale echoed Dailesi's sentiments, emphasising the high cost of second-hand tyres in Malawi and the consequent need for traders to cross borders in search of more competitively priced options.
At Biwi Triangle, one of the prominent trading spots, there are over thirty second-hand tyre vendors, with many boasting more than two decades of experience in the industry.
The rising trend of importing second-hand tyres from South Africa and other neighbouring countries has raised concerns among local traders about the long-term viability of their businesses.
As the demand for affordable tyres continues to grow, it remains to be seen whether the Malawian market can adapt to these changing dynamics.