Zambia Launches Outward Trade Mission to Boost Relations with DRC
The Zambia Outward Trade Mission to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) officially commenced in Lubumbashi on October 17, marking a significant step towards enhancing trade relations between the two neighboring countries.
The Zambian government has reiterated its commitment to supporting local businesses in accessing new export markets for their products and services.
During the event, Lillian Bwalya, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry, represented the government and emphasized the importance of building long-term networks to foster trade and investment between Zambia and the DRC.
“The two governments are dedicated to reducing barriers, improving infrastructure, and enhancing regional cooperation to facilitate smoother trade relations,” Bwalya stated.
She also acknowledged the efforts of the Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) in preparing Zambian businesses for business-to-business meetings with Congolese buyers through the Fédération des Enterprises du Congo (FEC).
This trade mission is timely, as the DRC remains a key trading partner for Zambia, serving as a vital gateway for expanding Zambian exports.
Jessica Chombo, ZDA Director of Export Promotion, speaking on behalf of ZDA Director General Albert Halwampa, noted that over 40 Zambian enterprises are participating in the mission.
These companies represent diverse sectors, including agro-processing, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, engineering, and services.
“Our objective is to enhance trade flows between Zambia and the DRC. We want Zambian businesses to immerse themselves in the Congolese market and take advantage of the many opportunities available,” Halwampa emphasized, underlining the importance of streamlining the export process to make it more accessible for Zambian entrepreneurs.
He encouraged participating businesses to form mutually beneficial partnerships with their Congolese counterparts, ensuring that the collaboration between the two nations remains sustainable.
Felix Siame, Zambia’s Consul General to the DRC, expressed optimism about the mission’s potential outcomes: “I am confident that the meetings and agreements forged during this mission will lead to increased trade volumes, successful partnerships, and long-term investments between Zambia and the DRC.”
FEC Vice President Lambat Mutondo shared these sentiments, highlighting that the mission could strengthen economic ties between the two countries and drive growth in both economies.
