Zambia Applauds China’s Investment Surge as FDI Tops 50%
Zambia has lauded the growing wave of Chinese investment in its economy, with Deputy Secretary to Cabinet for Finance and Economic Development, Mr. Siazongo D. Siakalenge, revealing that Chinese enterprises now account for over 50% of Zambia’s total Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).
Speaking on behalf of Commerce, Trade and Industry Minister Hon. Chipoka Mulenga, MP, at the Hunan Entrepreneurs–China-Africa Economic and Trade Promotion Special Matchmaking Conference, Mr. Siakalenge emphasized that Zambia’s exports to China between 2022 and 2024 made up 20% of the country’s total exports—an indicator of the strong and deepening economic ties between the two nations.
Held on the sidelines of the 4th China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo (CAETE), the conference brought together African and Chinese business leaders for strategic engagement.
Mr. Siakalenge used the platform to promote Zambia’s investment prospects, highlighting the Kafue Multi-Facility Economic Zone as a key destination for industrial expansion and resource development.
“Zambia is richly endowed with natural resources, but we require capital and technical expertise to unlock their full value. Chinese enterprises have the opportunity to grow alongside us,” said Mr. Siakalenge, noting the visible success of Chinese businesses already operating in the country.
He thanked the Hunan Provincial Government for its role in facilitating Zambia’s trade ambitions with China and hailed the longstanding diplomatic relations between the two countries, which have existed since Zambia’s independence.
Mr. Siakalenge is accompanying Minister Mulenga at the CAETE in Changsha, where the Zambian delegation is engaging with prospective investors and showcasing Zambia’s industrial and entrepreneurial potential.
The itinerary includes visits to investment booths, the Zambian pavilion, and meetings with Chinese companies interested in expanding their footprint in Zambia.
