Zambia–Japan Forum Opens New Avenues for Trade and Investment
Zambia and Japan have reinforced their economic partnership following the successful hosting of the Zambia–Japan Business Forum in Lusaka. The event brought together 21 Japanese investors, senior government officials, and Zambian private‑sector leaders to explore trade and investment opportunities.
The forum builds on the progress achieved during President Hakainde Hichilema’s state visit to Japan in February 2025, which laid the groundwork for deeper collaboration between the two nations.
Speaking at the event, Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry, Hon. Chipoka Mulenga, described the forum as a milestone in advancing trade and investment relations.
He highlighted Japan’s long-standing role as a trusted development partner and noted the recently signed Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) as a key tool for boosting investor confidence and opening new avenues for private-sector-led growth.
Albert Halwampa, Director General of the Zambia Development Agency (ZDA), encouraged Japanese investors to explore opportunities across priority sectors, including energy, manufacturing, agriculture, mining, and transport.
He added that Zambia’s political stability, pro-business reforms, and access to regional markets through SADC, COMESA, and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) make it an attractive destination for investment.
Zambia’s Ambassador to Japan, Dr Tobias Mulimbika, emphasised that President Hichilema’s visit had set concrete commitments to deepen cooperation, promote trade, and increase Japanese investment in Zambia, with the Business Forum demonstrating tangible results.
Japanese Ambassador to Zambia, Mikami Akiteru, said the forum marked a step beyond traditional frameworks, exploring new avenues for collaboration and growth between the two countries.
The forum highlighted Zambia’s readiness to attract foreign investment and strengthen partnerships that translate into concrete economic outcomes, signalling a promising future for Zambia–Japan economic relations.
