By 
Zambia has announced a new phase of economic cooperation with China following Beijing’s decision to open its domestic market to Zambian products—a move expected to strengthen trade, stimulate investment, and advance value-addition efforts across key sectors.
The development emerged during high-level talks between President Hakainde Hichilema and Chinese Premier Li Qiang at State House on Thursday, where both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to expanding strategic partnerships.
President Hichilema expressed gratitude to the Chinese government for opening its market to Zambian products, saying the move will significantly boost bilateral trade and investment.
“We are grateful to China for opening its domestic market to Zambian goods. This creates an important opportunity for us to scale up production and establish joint ventures that can supply that vast market,” Hichilema said.
He added that despite global shifts, China has remained one of Zambia’s most reliable partners.
“China can count on Zambia regardless of global shifts. Ours is a friendship built on mutual trust and shared progress,” he said.
The Head of State noted that the Comprehensive Strategic and Cooperative Partnership, elevated in 2023 during his state visit to China, had already produced tangible benefits in sectors such as mining, energy, agriculture, and infrastructure.
Hichilema also praised China’s ongoing support for the revitalisation of the Tanzania–Zambia Railway (TAZARA), calling it a crucial infrastructure asset.
“TAZARA is more than just a railway line, it is an economic lifeline that will enhance trade and investment across the region, particularly under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA),” he said.
He congratulated President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang on the successful conclusion of the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee, which approved China’s 15th Five-Year Plan, noting that the plan aligns well with Zambia’s industrialisation and economic diversification goals.
Reflecting on more than six decades of Zambia–China cooperation, Hichilema said the relationship was built on a foundation laid by Chairman Mao Zedong and Dr Kenneth Kaunda.
“Our partnership dates back to the 1960s, when China supported the construction of the TAZARA Railway, at a time when it was not yet an economic powerhouse. That act of solidarity opened Zambia’s trade route to the Indian Ocean when southern access was blocked during the colonial era,” he said.
He emphasized that new cooperation spanned infrastructure, mining, energy, and trade.
“We are walking the path carved by Mao and Kaunda, a path of mutual progress and shared prosperity. Successive leaders must continue on this progressive path that creates jobs and business opportunities for our people,” he said.
Hichilema said he was pleased that Premier Li’s visit coincided with the commencement of TAZARA rehabilitation works, noting that improved connectivity would enhance regional economic integration.
“Infrastructure is central to our development agenda. It facilitates investment, trade, and access to markets not only for Zambia but for the entire region,” he said.
Hichilema further thanked China for its instrumental role in Zambia’s debt restructuring process.
“We appreciate China’s support in our debt restructuring journey and the close cooperation we continue to enjoy at the multilateral level. We will continue building on this friendship for the benefit of both our nations,” he said.
Reaffirming Zambia’s commitment to the One-China Policy, President Hichilema underscored the mutual trust that defined the relationship.
“The world may change, but Zambia’s friendship with China remains constant. You can count on Zambia as a steadfast partner, today and for generations to come,” he said.
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