Zambia and Tanzania have reinforced their long-standing relationship by committing to deepen bilateral trade, investment, and strategic partnerships through expanded business cooperation. The renewed commitment was highlighted during the Tanzania-Zambia Business Forum held in Lusaka, where leaders from both countries emphasized the importance of stronger economic collaboration. The forum took place at the Zambia Development Agency and brought together senior government officials, business leaders, and private sector representatives. Discussions focused on practical ways to boost trade flows and unlock investment opportunities across key sectors. Both nations expressed a shared goal of building stronger economic resilience through regional cooperation and private sector engagement.
The Tanzania-Zambia Business Forum served as a key platform for dialogue on expanding commercial ties between the two sister countries. It was co-hosted by the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry alongside the Zambia Development Agency, reflecting high-level institutional support for cross-border economic engagement. Delegates from both countries explored opportunities in manufacturing, agriculture, transport, and logistics, which were identified as priority sectors for growth. Business leaders also discussed challenges affecting trade efficiency and how improved coordination could remove barriers to investment. The event reinforced the importance of direct business-to-business engagement in accelerating economic development.
Permanent Secretary for Trade and Commerce in the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry Lillian S. Bwalya delivered welcoming remarks that highlighted Zambia’s commitment to improving the business environment. She stated that government reforms continue to focus on simplifying business registration processes to make it easier for investors to operate. She also pointed to improvements in regulatory frameworks designed to increase efficiency and transparency in the investment landscape. Access to finance was also emphasized as a key priority to support both local entrepreneurs and foreign investors. These reforms are aimed at positioning Zambia as a competitive and attractive investment destination within the region and across Africa.
Regional integration was another major focus of the discussions, with both countries acknowledging its importance in driving sustainable economic growth. Officials stressed that increased intra-African trade is essential for long-term development and reduced dependency on external markets. The revitalisation of the Tanzania Zambia Railway, commonly known as TAZARA, was highlighted as a critical infrastructure project that could transform trade logistics between the two countries. Improved rail connectivity is expected to reduce transport costs, enhance cargo movement, and strengthen supply chain efficiency. Leaders agreed that infrastructure development remains central to unlocking the full potential of regional trade.
Zambia Development Agency Director General Albert Halwampa noted that there is significant untapped potential in trade and investment flows between Zambia and Tanzania. He expressed confidence that stronger collaboration between private sector players would lead to increased trade volumes and diversified economic activity. Halwampa also emphasized the importance of aligning bilateral cooperation with the broader goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area, which seeks to promote economic integration across the continent. He described the forum as an important platform for building trust, sharing opportunities, and encouraging joint ventures between businesses from both nations. According to him, sustained engagement between investors will be key to translating policy commitments into tangible economic outcomes.
The Tanzania-Zambia Business Forum ultimately reinforced the shared vision of both governments to promote inclusive growth through trade and investment. It demonstrated a clear commitment to strengthening institutional and private sector partnerships that support long-term development goals. The Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry reiterated its dedication to policies that encourage investment and improve the overall business climate. Both countries continue to view their cooperation as a model for regional integration within Africa. The outcomes of the forum point toward a future of deeper economic ties, increased investment flows, and shared prosperity for Zambia and Tanzania.