Zambia Rejects General Levy on Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Maritime Sector

Minister of Green Economy and Environment Hon. Mike Mposha has announced that Zambia will not support the introduction of a general levy on Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions in the maritime sector.

He expressed concerns about the economic impact on developing countries, particularly Zambia, which relies heavily on maritime transport for its imports and exports.

During a meeting with Brazil’s Ambassador to Zambia, Arthur Henrique Villanova Nogueira, Hon. Mposha discussed the potential economic repercussions, including higher shipping costs affecting Zambia’s trade competitiveness and consumer prices.

Despite acknowledging the environmental benefits of reducing GHG emissions, he emphasized that the adverse economic effects might outweigh these gains.

Therefore, Zambia will oppose the levy at the International Maritime Organization meeting in September.

Hon. Mposha also highlighted the importance of technical collaboration between Brazil’s National Institute of Meteorology (INMET) and the Zambia Meteorological Department (ZMD) to enhance meteorological services.

This cooperation aims to improve data sharing and early warning systems, crucial for addressing climate change-induced challenges like drought.

Additionally, Hon. Mposha underscored opportunities for Zambia and Brazil to collaborate in sustainable forest management.

He proposed joint efforts in forest resource assessment, forest enterprise development, and the expansion of forest plantations to meet future wood demands.

The meeting concluded with mutual recognition of the need for strengthened partnerships to address climate change and maximize natural resource benefits.