ZDA Leads Over 40 Companies on Trade Mission to DRC
The Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) will spearhead a trade mission to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) from October 16th to 18th, 2024, in Haut-Katanga province, Lubumbashi. Leading a delegation of over 40 Zambian companies, the mission aims to boost Zambia’s non-traditional exports (NTEs) and secure increased market access in the Congolese market.
The mission, which is in collaboration with the DRC government and the Lubumbashi Chamber of Commerce, Fédération des Entreprises du Congo (FEC), seeks to strengthen Zambia’s foothold in one of its most significant export markets.
ZDA Director General, Mr. Albert Halwampa, emphasized that Congo DR has long been Zambia’s largest market for non-traditional exports and that this mission would ensure sustained growth in trade relations.
A key feature of the trade mission will be business-to-business meetings facilitated through a strategic matchmaking process. The event will include an opening session attended by Congolese government representatives and industry leaders, followed by exhibitions aimed at showcasing Zambian products to potential buyers.
Mr. Halwampa highlighted the success of the 2023 trade mission, which generated leads worth US$13.8 million, of which US$6 million has been realized through exports to the DRC.
“Trade missions have proven to be an effective tool in linking Zambian exporters to international markets,” he said. “We expect even greater results from this year’s mission as it will deepen trade ties and promote employment creation through increased production.”
Participating Zambian companies represent diverse sectors, including agriculture, agro-processing, mining, engineering, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals. With this trade mission, ZDA aims to create more business opportunities, expand Zambia’s export footprint in the DRC, and drive sustainable economic growth for both nations.
