Zambia’s economy is entering a recovery phase, with growth projected at around 5.8% in 2025, supported by stronger agricultural output and renewed investment in copper and cobalt mining.
These sectors remain the backbone of the economy, providing the bulk of export earnings and foreign exchange. At the same time, Zambia is advancing its digital transformation: emerging tech hubs in Lusaka, the expansion of e-government services and rising demand for digital financial and health solutions are creating new opportunities for innovation.
For Swiss exporters, strong potential exists in mining technologies, mechanical and electrical machinery, digital services, cybersecurity, e-government solutions and eHealth tools. However, sustained high inflation - still around 16% in mid-2025 - together with foreign-exchange pressures and elevated public debt levels require careful planning, flexible pricing and reliable local partnerships. Companies that adapt to local dynamics and offer value-adding, technologically advanced solutions can build a resilient position in this evolving market.
No
Free Trade Agreement
There is a free trade agreement between Switzerland and this country. Source: State Secretariat for Economic Affairs SECO
3.47 3.47 billion
Total trade flows
Total goods traded with Switzerland (imports + exports). Source: UN Comtrade. Data as of 2023.
16.65 16.65 %
3-year GDP growth
Total real GDP growth over the last three years. Source: World Bank. Data as of 2023.
Zambia’s growth outlook is strengthening, with GDP expected to reach around 6% in 2025, driven by mining, agriculture and services. Debt restructuring and IMF-backed reforms are improving stability, creating new opportunities for Swiss companies in industrial, energy and agri-technology sectors.
Stéphanie Labité
Head of Swiss Business Hub Southern AfricaLatest insights
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FAQs
What is the current economic situation?
Zambia’s economy is moving toward recovery, with GDP projected at around 5.8% in 2025. Improved agricultural conditions and renewed copper and cobalt production underpin this outlook. Inflation remains high at roughly 16%, which affects purchasing power and cost structures. Exporters should factor this into pricing and financial planning.
What are the main export and import trends?
Zambia’s export profile continues to be dominated by mining products, especially copper. Swiss exports to Zambia are led by machinery and mechanical appliances, which account for the majority of Swiss export value. Imports from Zambia into Switzerland remain primarily precious metals. Demand for high-quality machinery and industrial equipment continues to grow alongside mining and infrastructure activity.
What opportunities exist for Swiss companies?
Opportunities for Swiss firms include digital government solutions, cybersecurity, digital financial services, eHealth technologies and mining-related machinery. Zambia’s growing tech ecosystem and its efforts to modernise public services create a favourable environment for Swiss innovation and expertise.
Which sectors are most promising?
Technology-driven services - such as e-government, cybersecurity and digital finance - offer strong potential. Mining remains a central pillar of Zambia’s economy, and renewed investment in copper and cobalt extraction supports demand for engineering, machinery and process-optimisation technologies. Health technology and infrastructure modernisation provide additional openings.
What are the main challenges and risks?
Swiss exporters must navigate elevated inflation, exchange-rate volatility and evolving regulations. Environmental pressures, including droughts that affect agriculture and energy supply, can also disrupt operations. Building strong local partnerships, maintaining flexible contracts and monitoring economic developments are essential to mitigating risk.
