The Government of Zambia, through the Zambia Bureau of Standards (ZABS), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with China to strengthen cooperation in standardization. ZABS operates under the Ministry of Commerce, Trade, and Industry. The signing ceremony was witnessed by Minister Chipoka Mulenga, MP, and senior government officials.
The MOU aims to enhance collaboration between Zambia and China in standardization, contributing to economic growth, industrial competitiveness, and improved quality of goods and services in Zambia. Minister Mulenga highlighted the importance of aligning with the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) to ensure Chinese standards are effectively applied in the Zambian market. He stressed the need for advanced technology to boost Zambia’s competitiveness in industrial and service standardization.
The agreement outlines a clear roadmap for cooperation across several areas. A China-Africa Standardization Cooperation and Research Center will be established, focusing on capacity building and creating an information exchange platform. The platform will provide enterprises in China and Africa with information on market access policies, technical regulations, and standards catalogs.
The MOU also provides for the creation of a China-Zambia Agricultural Standardization Demonstration Zone in Chibombo District. This zone will develop standards covering the full industrial chain and key operational standards for staple crops such as maize and sorghum.
Another major component is the China-Africa Conformity Assessment Capacity Building Initiative. This initiative will provide technical training on standards for African countries, focusing on mutual recognition of certifications for key trade products between China and Zambia. Zambia has indicated that training priorities will be aligned to build a strong technical foundation for mutual recognition, reinforcing bilateral cooperation.
SAMR Vice Minister Deng Zhiyong described the agreement as a new chapter in China-Zambia relations. He pledged continued Chinese support for Zambia’s industrial growth and emphasized that the MOU will strengthen technical capacity and standards in Zambia’s manufacturing sector.
The partnership is expected to drive economic growth, improve the business environment, and increase the competitiveness of Zambian industries. By aligning standards with international benchmarks, Zambia is positioning itself for stronger trade, investment, and industrial development.