Zambia Association of Manufacturers

Last week, our CEO Mrs. Lindunda had the privilege of being the Guest of Honor at the launch of Bata Group’s new state-of-the-art gumboot manufacturing machine. In her remarks, she highlighted Bata’s unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and meeting the practical needs of Zambians. She applauded the company for investing in local manufacturing capacity and contributing to Zambia’s industrial growth. The new machine, commissioned at an investment of USD 600,000, marks a significant milestone for Bata. With this addition, the company has more than doubled its gumboot production capacity from 450,000 pairs annually to 1 million pairs. This increased output will help meet the growing demand for durable, comfortable, and affordable gumboots, which are essential for sectors such as agriculture, mining, construction, and everyday use. Bata’s focus on local production not only supports job creation but also enhances the availability of high-quality footwear tailored to the needs of Zambia’s workforce. This investment demonstrates a strong commitment to the “think local first” vision, aligning with the broader national agenda of fostering local manufacturing and reducing dependency on imports. We commend Bata this bold step in strengthening Zambia’s manufacturing sector and their dedication to empowering communities through sustainable business practices. #Manufacturing #ValueAddition #ShoeManufacturing #BataIndustries

Yesterday, we appeared before the Parliamentary Committee on National Economy, Trade, and Labour Matters, chaired by Hon. Sibeso Kakoma. ZAM provided feedback on three key bills currently under consideration: - The Mobile Money Transaction Levy Bill, N.A.B No. 25 of 2024 - The Property Transfer Tax (Amendment) Bill, N.A.B No. 27 of 2024 - The Insurance Premium Levy (Amendment) Bill, N.A.B No. 28 of 2024 Our presentation highlighted potential impacts of these bills on Zambia’s manufacturing sector and the broader economy. ZAM remains committed to safeguarding the interests of manufacturers and advocating for policies that support sustainable industry growth and economic development. Muntanga Mfula Lindunda Jiholola Kabandala Michelo Maunga #PolicyAdvocacy #Manufacturing #Zambia #WeAddValue

NWCCI 2024 Business & Investment Expo in Solwezi! ZAM participated in the Northwestern Chamber of Commerce and Industry`s (NWCCI) 2024 Business & Investment Expo at Kokeb Technology Centre, which took place from November 6-8, 2024. This Expo brought businesses together to leverage opportunities in the Lobito Corridor, boost mine supply chain participation, promote value addition, enhance market linkages, and diversify the mine value chain. This year's theme: "Sustainable Growth Through Regional Integration and Value Addition, Harnessing Opportunities in the Lobito Corridor" highlighted a focus on long-term regional development. The event began with a conference on November 6, where our Membership and Business Development Specialist - North, Ms. Ivy Alwisho, spoke on a panel discussion titled "Unlocking Finance for Value Addition: Transforming Mineral Resources into Economic Growth.” The Expo culminated in impactful B2B meetings on day two, an exhibition where we showcased our members' products, and a mine tour on the final day. It was a great opportunity to connect, collaborate, and inspire growth in the region! #NWCCI #2024BusinessAndInvestmentExpo #Solwezi #Mining

Earlier today, the Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM) hosted a Stakeholder Engagement Meeting to discuss the Kasumbalesa Walkway Project at the Neelkanth Sarovar Premiere Hotel in Lusaka. The meeting brought together key stakeholders from the Ministry of Commerce, Trade, and Industry, the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), the European Development Fund (EDF), the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA), the Cross-Border Traders Association of Zambia, and ZAM members from diverse manufacturing sectors. The session gathered valuable industry insights to help shape the future of the Kasumbalesa Walkway Project, with discussions also covering a proposed Export Trading Zone for the Kasumbalesa Border post. ZAM remains dedicated to creating forums that enable manufacturers to engage constructively with Government and other stakeholders, fostering a supportive and favorable business environment. #WeAddValue #Manufacturing #NTBs #RegionalTrade #KasumbalesaBoarder

The Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM) Secretariat deeply regrets to announce the passing of our esteemed colleague, Mr. Levison Lungu, who served as Security Officer from January 2023 until his untimely departure. From the ZAM Board and Secretariat, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the Lungu family during this difficult time. Our thoughts and sympathies are with them.

Last Thursday, our Assistant Policy Analyst - Data and Evidence, Mr. Jiholola Kabandala, joined ZNBC TV2's "The Plug" to discuss the implications of ZESCO Limited's approved tariff hike. Other esteemed panelists included Mr. Isaac Mwaipopo Center for Trade Policy and Development Executive Director, Mr. Matongo Maumbi ZESCO Spokesperson, and Mr. Susiku Imataa Nasinda Co-Founder of NSN Energy Consulting. Mr. Kabandala emphasized that electricity is a critical input for manufacturers. The approved tariff hike will directly impact production costs, as higher energy costs will drive up the overall cost of producing goods. This increase is expected to affect both large manufacturers and SMEs. While some large companies may be able to switch to alternative energy sources like diesel generators, smaller manufacturers especially SMEs may not have the financial capacity to do so. For those relying solely on ZESCO’s power supply, any inconsistency or load shedding could lead to production halts, directly affecting their business operations. During these hard economic times, it's crucial for stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue with policymakers and relevant stakeholders to explore sustainable solutions that support both growth and stability in the manufacturing sector. #ZambiaManufacturing #ZAM #EnergyCosts #ZESCO #TariffHike #ZNBCThePlug #ZambiaEconomy #ManufacturingChallenges #SMEs #ZambiaPower

???????? ???????? ???????????? ?????????????? Earlier today, ZAM with support from the USAID Revenue for Growth Project, successfully hosted our Post-Budget meeting at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Lusaka. The event was graced by the Minister of Finance and National Planning, represented by Mrs. Mwaka C. Mukubesa, Acting Permanent Secretary – Budget and Economic Affairs. During the meeting, ZAM President Mr. Ashu Sagar presented our analysis of the 2025 National Budget. Key highlights included: ?????????????????????????? ????????????: The sector recorded a modest growth of 4.7% in 2022, contributing 0.4% to national GDP growth. ?????? ????????????????????: High energy costs, delayed VAT refunds, burdensome licensing, volatile exchange rates, and regional export barriers continue to affect performance. ???????????????? ????????????????: Increased allocation to the Zambia Credit Guarantee Scheme, introduction of surtaxes on selected imports to support local production, and enhanced road infrastructure through PPPs. ????????????????: The absence of new tax concessions in 2025 may hinder industrial growth, while increased excise duties on non-alcoholic beverages and tobacco could drive up production costs. ?????? ??????????????????????????????: Adjust Corporate Income Tax for value-added exports, reform the VAT system to address refund delays, and implement cost-reflective electricity tariffs while ensuring affordability. These insights are crucial for Zambia’s economic growth and competitiveness. A special thank you to New Horizon Printing Press and Coca-Cola Beverages Zambia for sponsoring this event. #ZAMBudgetAnalysis #ZambiaEconomy #Manufacturing #2025Budget #WeAddValue

Last week, on October 9th, we proudly joined the global community in celebrating World Mental Health Day as Chianama Hills College Hospital hosted a World Mental Health Open Day. This important event brought together stakeholders committed to improving mental health in Zambia. As part of this initiative, ZAM, through the generous support of our members, Manal Investments and Amour Mineral Water, donated mattresses and mineral water to the hospital. These contributions are a continuation of ZAM’s unwavering commitment to support mental health initiatives across the nation. Just last month, ZAM further demonstrated this commitment by donating assorted items worth K150,000 to Chianama Hills College Hospital during our Manufacturers Month. These efforts underline ZAM's dedication to championing mental health in Zambia, showing that the manufacturing sector can play a vital role in uplifting and supporting our communities. Together, we continue to prioritize the well-being of all Zambians. ???? #WorldMentalHealthDay #ZAMCares #SupportingCommunities #MentalHealthMatters #WeAddValue

??????????????????' ?????????????????????????????? ????????????????- ?????????? We had an incredible 3-day Exporters' Competitiveness Workshop from 10th-12th October at Sherbourne Hotel in Kitwe, made possible with the support of the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI). This was the second edition, following our Lusaka workshop, and focused on empowering 50 manufacturing businesses from Lusaka and the Copperbelt. We covered crucial topics like Access to Finance, Quality Standards, and Export Readiness to help them tap into international markets. What's next? All participants will now embark on a 3-month mentorship journey to further strengthen their export capabilities. Thank you, Canada in Zambia! #ExportCompetitiveness #CanadaFund #TradeOpportunities #CapacityBuilding #Mentorship #ZambianManufacturers #CFLI

ZAM with support from USAID/Zambia Revenue for Growth Project is excited to host the 2024 Post Budget Meeting on 15th October 2024 at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Lusaka. Under the theme “Building a Resilient Manufacturing Sector Amidst the Drought,” this important forum will bring together key stakeholders from the public and private sectors to discuss the 2025 National Budget and its impact on Zambia’s manufacturing industry. Key Discussions: Budget impact on manufacturing, policy recommendations, and the future of industrialization. Join us as we explore strategies to strengthen drought resilience, energy sustainability, and drive industrial growth! #WeAddValue #BudgetAnalysis #ZambiaManufacturing #DroughtResilience #IndustrialGrowth #2025Budget