Chinese mining firms refusing to meet local suppliers for local content law implementation

The President of the Association of Mine Suppliers and Contractors (AMSC) in Zambia, Costa Mwaba, has expressed frustration over continued difficulties faced by local suppliers when attempting to engage with some Chinese-owned mining firms, despite the implementation of the new local content law.

In an exclusive interview with the Zambian Business Times (ZBT), Mwaba revealed that, despite the law requiring both large and small-scale mines to allocate at least 20% of their annual procurement budget to Zambian suppliers, a threshold set to rise over time, some international mining companies mainly the Chinese firms, remain unresponsive to requests for engagement.

“The challenge still continues because access to these companies is extremely difficult. Even if we request appointments officially, our efforts are often met with silence. We take this very seriously, as we represent stakeholders who need to be heard. Denying us access undermines our role as ambassadors for our members.” Mwaba stated.

He further emphasized the importance of collaboration and transparency, noting, “If there are issues to correct, we want to address them and move forward together. The essence is to ensure compliance and mutual growth.”

Mwaba also called on the government and other stakeholders to enforce an open-door policy among foreign mining firms, stressing that compliance with Zambian law is not optional.

“These companies are registered in Zambia and must comply with the law. If business is meant for local suppliers, and there is a board representing them, it is only right that there should be open dialogue.” He stated.

Article by Tyndale Muchiya