Zambia Trade Mission to DRC Officially Opens in Lubumbashi
The Zambia Outward Trade Mission to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) officially opened in Lubumbashi on 17th October, marking a significant step toward boosting trade relations between the two neighboring countries. The Zambian government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting local businesses in accessing new export markets for their products and services.
Speaking on behalf of Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry Permanent Secretary Lillian Bwalya, Director of Human Resources Nalituba Mwale stressed the importance of long-term networks to foster trade and investment between Zambia and DRC.
“The two governments are committed to reducing barriers, improving infrastructure, and enhancing regional cooperation to facilitate smoother trade relations,” Bwalya noted in her speech. She also highlighted the efforts of the Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) in preparing Zambian businesses for business-to-business meetings with Congolese buyers through the Fédération des Enterprises du Congo (FEC).
The trade mission comes at a time when DRC continues to be a key trading partner for Zambia, serving as an essential gateway for expanding Zambia’s exports.
ZDA Director of Export Promotion Jessica Chombo, speaking on behalf of ZDA Director General Albert Halwampa, pointed out that over 40 Zambian enterprises were participating in the mission. These companies represent diverse sectors, including agro-processing, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, engineering, and services.
“Our objective is to enhance trade flows between Zambia and the DRC. We want Zambian businesses to immerse themselves in the Congolese market and take advantage of the many opportunities available,” Halwampa stated, stressing the importance of streamlining the export process to make it more accessible for Zambian entrepreneurs.
He further encouraged participating businesses to form win-win partnerships with their Congolese counterparts, ensuring that the collaboration between the two nations remains sustainable and mutually beneficial.
Felix Siame, Zambia’s Consul General accredited to DRC, expressed optimism about the potential outcomes of the mission:
“I am confident that the meetings and agreements forged during this mission will lead to increased trade volumes, successful partnerships, and long-term investments between Zambia and the DRC,” said Mr. Siame.
FEC Vice President Lambat Mutondo echoed these sentiments, highlighting that the mission could strengthen economic ties between the two countries, bringing growth to both economies.
