Gov’t Reaffirms Support for Local Manufacturing at Proudly Zambian Expo
The Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry has reaffirmed its commitment to boosting Zambia’s local manufacturing sector, pledging stronger policy support and collaboration with industry stakeholders.
Speaking at the Proudly Zambian Expo in Lusaka, Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry, Hon. Chipoka Mulenga, MP, underscored the importance of promoting locally produced goods and services as a cornerstone of national economic growth.
The Proudly Zambian Campaign – a public-private sector initiative – has continued to gain momentum, with 158 member companies now registered across multiple sectors. To date, more than 635 products have successfully undergone quality assurance processes, meeting international standards and earning the Proudly Zambian mark.
This year’s expo, themed “40 Years of Excellence: Driving Industrial Growth through Regional Integration and Resilience,” highlighted the achievements of Zambian manufacturers and their growing competitiveness in regional and global markets.
Hon. Mulenga commended the Zambia Association of Manufacturers for hosting the event, describing it as an important platform for showcasing innovation and industry success stories.
He further stressed government’s resolve to align education and skills training with industry needs, while encouraging collaboration among stakeholders to strengthen manufacturing, increase domestic value addition, and advance self-reliance.
As part of its industrialisation agenda, the Ministry has introduced local content legislation aimed at prioritising Zambian-made goods in procurement. This measure is expected to enhance opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to play a central role in driving economic growth and job creation.
“The Proudly Zambian initiative reflects our collective ambition to empower local industries, promote resilience, and position Zambia as a strong manufacturing hub,” Hon. Mulenga said.
