Convenience Food - Malawi

Malawi

Highlights

Revenue in the Convenience Food market amounts to US$260.50m in 2024. The market is expected to grow annually by 6.19% (CAGR 2024-2029).
In global comparison, most revenue is generated China (US$154bn in 2024).
In relation to total population figures, per person revenues of US$12.13 are generated in 2024.
In the Convenience Food market, volume is expected to amount to 49.94m kg by 2029. The Convenience Food market is expected to show a volume growth of 0.6% in 2025.0.
The average volume per person in the Convenience Food market is expected to amount to 2.3kg in 2024.

Key regions:

Market definitionIn-Scope/Out-of-scopeMarket structureReportsMethodology

The Convenience Food Market in Malawi has seen slow growth due to factors such as limited access to technology, low health awareness among consumers, and a lack of convenience in online food services. However, the Ready-to-Eat Meals and Soups sub-markets have shown potential for growth as they cater to busy lifestyles and offer convenient meal options. Overall, the market's minimal growth rate can be attributed to these factors limiting its potential for expansion.

Customer preferences: Convenience foods have seen a rise in demand in Malawi, as busy lifestyles and rapid urbanization have led to a growing need for quick and easy meal options. The market has witnessed an increase in the availability of international and Western-style convenience foods, catering to the preferences of urban consumers. Moreover, the popularity of convenience foods is also influenced by the increasing presence of modern retail outlets and the adoption of Western eating habits among the younger generation. This trend is expected to continue as more Malawians seek convenient and time-saving food options in their daily lives.

Trends in the market: In Malawi, the Convenience Food Market within The Food market is experiencing a surge in demand for healthier and more sustainable options. This trend is being driven by a growing awareness of the negative health and environmental impacts of traditional convenience foods. As a result, companies are innovating and offering more nutritious and eco-friendly options, such as plant-based and organic convenience foods. This trajectory is significant as it aligns with global movements towards healthier and more sustainable lifestyles. Industry stakeholders will need to adapt to these changing consumer preferences in order to stay competitive in the market.

Local special circumstances: In Malawi, the Convenience Food market is heavily influenced by the country's limited access to fresh produce and the high cost of imported goods. This has led to a rise in locally produced convenience food options, such as dried and canned goods, as well as street food vendors. Additionally, the country's cultural preference for spicy and flavorful food has resulted in the adaptation of international convenience food products to suit local taste preferences. These unique factors shape the Convenience Food market in Malawi, setting it apart from other markets.

Underlying macroeconomic factors: The Convenience Food Market within The Food market is heavily impacted by macroeconomic factors such as consumer spending power, inflation rates, and changing dietary preferences. In countries with a growing middle class and rising disposable incomes, there is a greater demand for convenient and ready-to-eat food options. On the other hand, economies facing economic downturns and high inflation rates may see a decline in consumer spending on convenience food products. Additionally, shifting consumer preferences towards healthier food options can also impact market growth, as consumers look for more nutritious and wholesome convenience food options.

Data coverage:

The data encompasses B2C enterprises. Figures are based on the total consumer spending on food, which comprises all private household spending on food that is meant for at-home consumption (out-of-home consumption is not accounted for).

Modeling approach:

Market sizes are determined through a top-down approach, building on specific predefined factors for each market segment. As a basis for evaluating markets, we use resources from the Statista platform as well as in-house market research, national statistical offices, international institutions, trade associations, companies, the trade press, and the experience of our analysts. In addition, we use relevant key market indicators and data from country-specific associations, such as GDP, consumer spending, and consumer price index. This data helps us estimate the market size for each country individually.

Forecasts:

In our forecasts, we apply diverse forecasting techniques. The selection of forecasting techniques is based on the behavior of the relevant market. For example, the exponential trend smoothing is well suited for forecasting the Food market with a projected steady growth. The main drivers are GDP per capita and consumer spending per capita.

Additional notes:

The data is modeled using current exchange rates. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war are considered at a country-specific level. The market is updated twice a year.