Zambia and China Strengthen Economic Ties

President Hakainde Hichilema has commended China for granting African nations greater access to its market, describing it as a vital opportunity for Zambia and other countries on the continent to export their products freely.

He made these remarks during a courtesy visit at State House by a Chinese delegation headed by Erkin Tuniyaz, Chairman of the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region.

President Hichilema stressed the importance of deepening cooperation in key areas such as agriculture. 

He also notes Zambia’s interest in adopting Chinese expertise in cotton production and processing, especially for the revitalization of the Mulungushi textile plant.

In response, Mr. Tuniyaz highlighted that trade between China and Zambia saw significant growth in 2024 and continued its upward trend into early 2025. 

Mr. Tuniyaz stated that this growth reflects China's strong confidence in its economic partnership with Zambia. 

He further urged the Zambian government to designate a capable authority to coordinate international trade between the two countries.

Meanwhile, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Stanley Kakubo, reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic and trade relations with China.