ZAFFICO Explores Cutting-Edge Technology at 2025 Woodworking Machinery Fair in Shanghai
A delegation from the Zambia Forestry and Forest Industries Corporation PLC (ZAFFICO) attended the prestigious 2025 China International Furniture and Woodworking Machinery Fair (WMF) in Shanghai from 9 to 13 September.
The Fair serves as a global hub for the wood processing supply chain, showcasing innovations ranging from initial timber processing and panel board production to advanced surface finishing technologies and home furnishing materials. The event highlighted the latest advancements in precision, efficiency, and environmental sustainability within the sector.
Reflecting on the experience, ZAFFICO Managing Director, Mr Mundia Mundia, said: “Attending WMF 2025 was critical for our strategic development. It provided invaluable insights into global best practices and technologies that are essential for optimising our forestry value chain and enhancing Zambia’s competitive edge.”
The knowledge gained at the Fair will inform ZAFFICO’s plans for its state-of-the-art Integrated Wood Processing Plant in Kalulushi. Initially focused on treated poles and sawn timber production, the facility will eventually expand to particle board and plywood manufacturing.
The ZAFFICO team engaged with leading machinery manufacturers and value-adding firms to gather first-hand intelligence on investment requirements, global market dynamics for engineered wood products, and operational efficiency, including automation, after-sales support, and skills transfer opportunities.
The research is key to guiding final investment decisions and ensuring that the new plant aligns with ZAFFICO’s strategic pillars of value addition, plantation expansion, and operational efficiency.
The delegation was led by Board Chairman, Dr Alvert N. Ng’andu, and included Mr Mundia Mundia (Managing Director), Mr Justin Tongo (Director of Operations), and Ms Irene Lungu Chipili (Head of Commercial).
