Research & Innovation Partnerships: MUBAS is set to host its September Innovation Conference under “Research and Innovation,” aiming to turn university research into practical solutions for business, with UGI also pledging K15m to support the event. Digital Economy Push (and Scrutiny): Malawi’s cloud, cybersecurity and AI shift is accelerating, but industry is warning that the digital ecosystem still needs stronger support; Sparc Systems’ ICTAM win and its export scaling blueprint highlight the opportunity. ICT Exports & Forex: Sparc Systems says ICT services exports rose from about US$70m (2020) to US$154m (2023), arguing Malawi can’t keep blaming forex shortages while underinvesting in proven export sectors. Policy Pressure on Digital Growth: ICT sector players at ICT Expo urged government to move beyond statements with tax incentives, export support and new legislation to unlock the digital economy. Tax & Health Industry: Government’s new up-to-25% import tariffs on selected medicines is sparking debate over pharmaceutical self-sufficiency versus higher costs for patients. Environment & Industry Compliance: MEPA and fertilizer firm Napoleon Dzombe are trading blame over delays in environmental approval, with MEPA saying omissions and late revised reports slowed the process. Transport Costs Hit Business: Transporters warn that fuel, maintenance, insurance, tolls and compliance costs are rising faster than haulage rates, pushing up prices. Banking Rate Trend: Commercial banks cut the June reference rate to 20.4% from 20.6% in May, as liquidity improves and government borrowing stays subdued. Climate Risk Ahead: Malawi is preparing for a possible Super El Niño after WMO forecasts, with local analysis still pending. US Health Funding: The US pledged up to $792m for Malawi’s health sector over five years, boosting delivery and systems strengthening.