Transition to multiparty democracy in the early nineties enabled landlocked Zambia to change its fortunes through drastic economic reforms and privatization program. Despite depressed mineral prices inhibiting growth, liberalization and diversification of its economy helped set Zambia on a firm road to recovery.

It remains largely dependent on copper, cobalt, zinc and lead. Privatization of state-owned mines has increased foreign holdings and productivity and stimulated overseas interest in a variety of other sectors. Zambia continues to implement internationally endorsed poverty reduction programs.

Country Profile

The landlocked Republic of Zambia shares boundaries with eight other countries. It is part of the high African plateau averaging more than 1,000 m (3,280 ft) and rising towards the northeastern Muchinga Mountains. Most of the country consists of savanna terrain.

The Bantu-speaking population comprises more than 70 ethnic groups with the Bemba dominant in the northeastern Copperbelt region, the Nyanja in the east and around Lusaka, the Tonga in the south and the Lozi in the west. English is the official language. About two-thirds of the people are Christians and the rest profess traditional ethnic beliefs.

Business Activity

Agriculture

Corn, sorghum, rice, peanuts, sunflower seed, tobacco, cotton, sugarcane, cassva (tapioca)
Cattle, goats, pigs, poultry, beef, pork.

Industries

Copper mining and processing, construction, foodstuffs, beverages, chemicals, textiles, and fertilizer.

Natural Resources

Copper, zinc, lead, cobalt, coal.

Export

$4.3 billion (est. 2007): copper, cobalt, zinc, lead, tobacco, cut flowers.

Imports

$3.6 billion (est.2007): machinery, transportation equipment, foodstuffs, fuel, petroleum products, electricity, fertilized, clothing.

Major Trading Partners

South Africa, UAE, China, Thailand, Switzerland, Tanzania, Zimbabwe.

Source: Les de Villiens, Africa 2009, Ninth Edition (A publication of The Corporate Council on Africa and Business Books International)