The Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) has strengthened its investment outreach in China by forging a strategic partnership with the Jiangsu Industrial Cooperation Association, an organisation representing more than 5,000 companies. The move is expected to significantly boost investment flows from China into Zambia.
The agreement, signed in Nanjing in Jiangsu Province, underscores rising investor confidence in Zambia and reinforces its position as an increasingly attractive destination for foreign investment in Africa.
As part of the partnership, the Association has provided ZDA with complimentary office space in Nanjing and support to recruit a staff member—both at no cost to the Zambian government. This will enable the agency to establish a permanent presence in one of China’s most economically vibrant regions, where GDP exceeds USD 2 trillion.
Jiangsu Province is widely regarded as a major economic powerhouse and a key source of outbound investment, making it a strategic location for Zambia’s investment promotion efforts.
ZDA Director General Albert Halwampa described the development as a significant milestone in the country’s strategy to attract foreign direct investment. He noted that the initiative aligns with Zambia’s broader push to deepen economic ties with China while targeting key sectors such as mining, energy, manufacturing, and value addition.
He explained that establishing a physical presence in Jiangsu will improve investor engagement, facilitate information exchange, and position Zambia to attract high-quality, long-term investments.
Halwampa added that Zambia aims to secure at least 10 percent—approximately USD 2 billion—of Jiangsu’s investment outflows, a move expected to accelerate the country’s industrialisation and broader economic transformation.
He also pointed out that the provision of office space reflects strong confidence in Zambia’s investment climate, supported by stable policies and improving macroeconomic fundamentals.
Zambia’s Ambassador to China, Ivan Zyuulu, welcomed the partnership, describing it as a clear vote of confidence in the country’s economic potential.
Chen Weimin, Director of the Jiangsu Industrial Cooperation Association, said the initiative responds to growing interest among Chinese companies looking to expand into Zambia. He noted that the Association’s extensive membership base, spanning multiple industries, is eager to explore new opportunities in the country.
The development comes as ZDA, in collaboration with the Zambian Embassy in Beijing, continues its investment promotion roadshow across China—aimed at positioning Zambia as a leading destination for foreign direct investment on the continent.
