Note: The information in this snapshot can help identify trade factors that may impact investments in Zambia. For example, the higher the Trade-to-GDP ratio the greater sensitivity Zambia’s economy might have to global economic, trade, and financial fluctuations. Also, changes in economies or industries of key trading partners may trigger changes in Zambia’s economy and industries. RT AfriBiZ.
Major Imports and Exports
According to the International Trade Centre, the top five export categories for Zambia in 2008, along with percentage of total exports, were:
- Copper and articles of copper (64.3%)
- Ores, slag, and ash (15.1%)
- Other base metals, cermets, and articles thereof (5.9%)
- Tobaccco and manufactured tobacco substitutes (1.4%)
- Sugars and sugar confectionery (1.3%)
- Boilers, machinery, nuclear reactors, etc. (16.6%)
- Mineral fuels, oils, distillation products, etc. (16.1%)
- Vehicles other than railway (9.7%)
- Ores, slag, and ash (8.4%)
- Electrical and electronic equipment (9.5%)
The top three countries to which Zambia exports merchandise, along with percentage of exports, are:
- China (14.2%)
- South Africa (8.5%)
- Democratic Republic of Congo (8.1%)
- South Africa (51.7%)
- United Arab Emirates (8%)
- China (6.8%)