By 
Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have signed a new bilateral agreement aimed at boosting trade, improving border operations and advancing regional economic integration.
The agreement—signed on December 4, 2025, by Zambia’s Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry Chipoka Mulenga and DRC Minister of External Trade Julien Paluku Kahongya—provides for the development of One Stop Border Posts (OSBPs) at key crossings shared by the two countries.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry Principal Public Relations Officer, Everness Nankala, said the OSBPs would be established at major border points, including Kipushi, Kasumbalesa, Mokambo, Kambimba and Sakania, as well as other locations jointly identified.
Nankala said the OSBP model would allow border agencies from both countries to operate within a single facility, cutting duplication of procedures and improving the speed and transparency of clearance processes.
Read more: Government targets 10,000MW of power by 2031, woos Turkish investors
“The agreement is expected to bring numerous benefits, including reduced congestion and waiting times, lower trade and transport costs, improved movement of goods and people, and enhanced security and coordination between border agencies. This will boost trade volumes, economic growth and competitiveness for traders and transporters,” she said.
She added that the initiative would strengthen regional supply chains, encourage formal cross-border trade and promote a safer, more predictable trading environment.
Nankala said the signing underscores both countries’ commitment to advancing cooperation and supporting regional integration under COMESA, SADC and the AfCFTA.
She also noted that the DRC remained one of Zambia’s most important trading partners, and that the agreement was expected to significantly improve trade facilitation and broaden economic ties.
“The Ministry extends its appreciation to all stakeholders who contributed to the development of this agreement and looks forward to its implementation, which will enhance collaboration, inclusive growth and shared prosperity between Zambia and the DRC,” she said.
WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.
Comments