The Malawi Investment Promotion Agency (MIPA) was established in 1991 as a result of the Investment Promotion Act 1991 to stimulate inward investment and became operational in 1993. Through MIPA, investors can access general incentives and export incentives, including Export Processing Zones (EPZs).  Between 1993 and 2001, MIPA facilitated a total of US$163.9 million of Foreign Direct Investment (about US$20 million a year), much of it from South Africa. This is a tiny proportion of world annual investment flows, and even of that flowing to Africa. 

Investment in manufacturing has been declining because of the poor macroeconomic environment, which will be addressed through the macro environment strategy which covers: maintaining a stable macroeconomic environment; investment incentives; appropriate and functioning economic and social infrastructure; financial sector reforms; capital market development; and appropriate legal and regulatory framework for domestic and foreign investment.  An added bonus is that the political environment and leadership is pro-investment and believes in a functioning and stable private sector.