Zambia Launches National Multi-Sectoral Task Force to Combat Illicit Trade
The Zambian Government, in collaboration with the Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM), has launched the National Multi-Sectoral Task Force Against Illicit Trade to protect domestic industries and safeguard public revenue.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry, Acting Permanent Secretary Angelina Chanda Mukuka emphasised the urgency of coordinated action, noting that Zambia must seize new trade opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) while defending its industries from smuggling, counterfeiting, and other illicit trade practices.
Following directives from President Hakainde Hichilema, the Task Force has commenced its sittings. It brings together key enforcement, regulatory, and private sector actors, chaired by the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry and deputised by the Ministry of Finance and National Planning.
Additional members include the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development and government agencies such as the Zambia Revenue Authority, Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency, Zambia Police Service, Anti-Corruption Commission, Patents and Companies Registration Agency, Financial Intelligence Centre, Drug Enforcement Commission, and the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission. The Zambia Association of Manufacturers and the Public-Private Dialogue Forum serve as conveners and secretariat.
The Task Force aims to close loopholes in procurement and tax administration, strengthen border surveillance, and conduct joint enforcement operations. By doing so, it seeks to protect jobs, enhance revenue collection, and ensure the competitiveness of Zambia’s manufacturing sector.
ZAM President Ashu Sagar hailed the initiative as a landmark public-private coalition to combat illicit trade, which he described as one of the most serious threats to Zambia’s industrial base and fiscal health.
He highlighted that sectors such as tobacco, alcohol, mechanically deboned meat (MDM), Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCGs), and imported raw materials are particularly vulnerable to smuggling and tax evasion, with illicit tobacco trade alone costing the Treasury an estimated USD 11–20 million annually in lost excise revenue.
Sagar stated that illicit trade distorts markets, undermines legitimate businesses, and erodes government resources. “Through this National Task Force, we are sending a clear signal that manufacturers are ready to partner with Government to restore integrity and fairness to the marketplace,” he said.
He also expressed hope that the Task Force’s work would be complemented by a predictable and sustainable tax framework to safeguard revenue and discourage expansion of the black market.
