Zambia’s Primary Resource Sectors Driving 2025 Economic Recovery
Zambia’s economy has shown a generally improving performance through the first-three quarters of 2025, underpinned by a rebound in mining, stabilising macroeconomic conditions and renewed investment flows.
Key drivers include the recovery of copper and cobalt production, supported by progress on major mining assets and higher global prices, which have strengthened export earnings and eased pressure on the kwacha.
Agricultural output also improved, offsetting early-year drought shocks and contributing to a moderated food inflation.
Fiscal discipline, ongoing debt restructuring, and enhanced revenue mobilisation have boosted investor confidence, while new projects in energy, digital infrastructure and the Lobito Corridor signal promising long-term growth.
Nonetheless, persistent unemployment, limited SME liquidity, and slow trickle-down effects continue to constrain household welfare.
Overall, Zambia is on a recovery path, but targeted micro-level interventions are needed to address cost-of-living pressures and ensure broader economic benefits.
