Zambia
Capital: Lusaka
Population
~20 million (2025 estimate)
Area
752,612 km²
GDP
$28-29 billion (2024)
Bordering Countries
8
Overview
Southern Africa, landlocked; bordered by Angola, Botswana, Democratic Republic of Congo, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe
Zambia is a landlocked Southern African country with vast copper wealth. It serves as a strategic trade crossroads but faces challenges from commodity dependence, high debt, and infrastructure limitations.
Bordering Countries: Angola, Botswana, Democratic Republic of Congo, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Tanzania, Zimbabwe
Economic Profile
Primary Exports
Copper (raw and refined), gold, precious stones, electricity, sugar, tobacco
Key Industries
Mining (especially copper), agriculture, construction, manufacturing, services
Main Trade Partners
Switzerland, China, United Arab Emirates, Democratic Republic of Congo, South Africa
Economic Challenges
Dependence on copper exports, fluctuating commodity prices, high debt burdens, limited port access
Trade & Transit Infrastructure
Main Transit Corridors
North-South Corridor, Dar es Salaam Corridor (TAZARA), Beira Corridor, Walvis Bay Corridor, Central Corridor
Key Border Crossing Points
Chirundu (Zimbabwe), Kasumbalesa (DRC), Nakonde/Tunduma (Tanzania), Kazungula (Botswana), Katima Mulilo (Namibia), Mwami (Malawi)
Port Access
Ports in Tanzania, Mozambique, South Africa, Namibia
Transport Infrastructure Quality
Ongoing upgrades to roads, railways, border posts
Trade & Transit Challenges
High transport costs, border congestion, infrastructure gaps, climate shocks
Key Statistics & Indicators
National Trade & Development Strategies
Vision 2030, AfCFTA implementation, Transport Master Plan, climate adaptation
Ongoing and Planned Projects
Nakonde/Tunduma OSBP Upgrade, Mpulungu Port Modernization, Central Corridor integration, road and rail rehabilitation