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China’s zero-tariff measures reportedly push Zambia’s exports to $1.6bn
Zambia’s exports to China reached US$1.665 billion in May and June 2026, representing an increase of nearly 40 percent year-on-year, supported by China’s comprehensive zero-tariff measures, Chinese Ambassador to Zambia Han Jing has said. Han said the two countries had recently dispatched the first shipments…
Picture: Zambia Monitor
Zambia’s exports to China reached US$1.665 billion in May and June 2026, representing an increase of nearly 40 percent year-on-year, supported by China’s comprehensive zero-tariff measures, Chinese Ambassador to Zambia Han Jing has said.
Han said the two countries had recently dispatched the first shipments of Zambian heat-processed cocoons and soybeans to China, while efforts were underway to finalise export protocols for avocados and citrus fruits.
The Ambassador said this during a media briefing in Lusaka on the latest developments in China-Zambia practical cooperation.
He said construction of the ZAMVAX vaccine plant, a joint venture between Zambia and China, was expected to begin in the near future. Upon completion, the facility is expected to produce 20 million doses of cholera vaccine annually.
Han said the plant would strengthen Zambia’s capacity, alongside that of other Southern African countries, to respond to public health emergencies.
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“China is firmly committed to implementing the Global Development Initiative and advancing South-South cooperation with Zambia in pursuit of shared prosperity,” he said.
Han also explained how the Global Development Initiative (GDI) could support Zambia’s development priorities under the Grow Zambia Agenda.
He said China was committed to deepening cooperation with Zambia in copper and cobalt mining to support the country’s economic development.
“Looking ahead and aligned with the Grow Zambia Agenda, we also encourage Chinese investment in agro-processing and food manufacturing in Zambia’s multi-facility economic zones, while deepening cooperation in copper and cobalt,” he said.
Han said the longstanding relationship between the two countries continued to provide a foundation for cooperation across various sectors, adding that Chinese investment was also supporting agriculture, manufacturing and infrastructure development.
“Our diplomatic ties began in October 1964, just days after Zambia’s independence. Our friendship has never wavered,” he said.
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