By Jane Chanda
Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry Chipoka Mulenga says Zambia’s partnership with China has reached significant heights, with trade exceeding $2 billion.
And Chipoka says investments have surpassed $3 billion across over 500 Chinese enterprises, providing employment to 50,000 Zambians.
Speaking at the 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai yesterday, the minister said this growth showed the importance of international cooperation in driving economic development.
He said the success of China’s Duty-Free- Quota-Free scheme, had enabled Zambia to diversify its exports beyond copper to products like soya beans, stevia and honey.
Mulenga talked about the importance of Chinese investment in Zambia’s energy sector, focusing on a balanced approach that included solar, wind, thermal and hydro projects.
He also advocated for collaboration in Zambia’s mining sector to promote value addition and industrialisation.
According to the minister, Zambia’s energy sector was poised for growth, with the government already implementing initiatives to increase energy efficiency.
He said his call for investment in renewable energy sources aligned with Zambia’s goal to diversify its energy mix.
The minister said his discussions with Tang Wenhong, acting Minister of Commerce for China, yielded positive responses, with China affirming its willingness to collaborate with Zambia, notably in the emerging Electric Vehicle subsector.
He said this cooperation was expected to boost Zambia’s economic growth and create new opportunities for Zambian entrepreneurs.
The minister further said the CIIE provided a platform for Zambian businesses to showcase their products, with over 3,500 companies from 129 countries and regions participating.
Mulenga said he toured the Zambian Pavilion with China’s Assistant Minister of Commerce Tang Wenhong, engaging with entrepreneurs and representatives from the Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) and embassy staff.
“We are committed to creating a conducive business environment and introducing sound policies to protect the rights and interests of investors, including Chinese investments,” he said.
Mulenga further reiterated Zambia’s appreciation for China’s support.
“We sincerely hope that the Zambian and Chinese business communities will make full use of the forum as an excellent platform to promote business cooperation, benefiting the people of both countries,” said Mulenga.
