The Business Regulatory Review Agency (BRRA), operating under the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry, is driving major licensing reforms aimed at improving Zambia’s business environment. In a recent press briefing, BRRA Board Chairperson Dominic Kapalu highlighted the agency’s accomplishments in 2025 and detailed strategic priorities for 2026. Key initiatives include amendments to the Business Regulatory Act of 2014 to strengthen enforcement and the introduction of a Business Facilitation Act designed to accelerate licensing procedures. The proposed Business Facilitation Act seeks to consolidate amendments across multiple laws into a single framework, simplifying regulatory processes and reducing barriers for entrepreneurs and investors.
BRRA is also introducing an Omnibus License in the tourism sector, allowing businesses to operate multiple activities under one license, significantly cutting red tape and administrative delays. These reforms align with a Cabinet Memorandum circulated by the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry, which requested input from implementing ministries to ensure cohesive policy execution. The agency is actively consulting with the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Justice to finalize legislative and operational details, demonstrating a collaborative approach to reform. By streamlining licensing and regulatory processes, BRRA aims to create a more predictable and business-friendly environment that encourages investment, fosters growth, and strengthens compliance across sectors. The focus on transparency, efficiency, and regulatory consolidation positions Zambia to attract both domestic and international business ventures more effectively.