This study evaluates the impact of privatization on technical efficiency using panel data from privatized enterprises, state-owned enterprises and private enterprises competing in oligopolistic Malawian manufacturing industries in which privatization took place. The results of the technical efficiency model, based on the period 1970–1997, provide evidence that privatization increases the technical efficiency of all firms (industry effects). Further incentives for improvements in technical efficiency are due to more domestic competition, multinationality and structural adjustment.