A delegation of five Japanese companies recently visited the Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) to discuss investment and partnership opportunities in Zambia, with a keen interest in the farming sector.
Accompanied by staff from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the delegation toured the country from October 7th to 11th, 2024.
During their visit, the Japanese team expressed interest in the potential rate of return on their investments and the type of support they could expect from the ZDA.
ZDA Director General, Mr. Albert Halwampa, assured the delegation of comprehensive support should they choose to invest in Zambia.
“We handhold the investor until they are up and running,” Mr. Halwampa stated.
He highlighted several incentives for investors with a certificate of registration, including zero duty on imported capital equipment for those operating in a Multi-Facility Economic Zone, no tax on items earmarked for export and assistance with immigration if required.
Mr. Halwampa outlined various investment opportunities in the country, such as the farm block concept, energy and mining sectors.
He emphasised the benefits of investing in farming, particularly given the ready market access provided by Zambia’s eight neighboring countries.
He also encouraged the delegation to consider investing in the energy sector due to the current shortages and highlighted opportunities in the mining sector, with the government targeting production of 3 million tonnes some of which should be value-added from Zambia.
The delegation expressed satisfaction with their tour and commended the Zambian people for their hospitality and the peaceful conditions prevailing in the country.
