Building on a Trade Breakthrough That Benefits Both Zambia and Angola
By Dr. Elias Munshya
Since 2022, trade between Zambia and Angola has changed in a noticeable and positive way. The numbers show it clearly. What was once modest trade has grown quickly, and although there is still much more to do, the direction is encouraging.
This progress matters because trade is not just about statistics. It is about jobs, incomes, food security, and stronger ties between neighbouring countries.
The numbers tell a clear story
Zambia’s exports to Angola were relatively low for many years. In 2020, they stood at about USD 1.7 million. In 2021, they rose slightly to USD 2.9 million.
Then came the turning point.
In 2022, exports increased to USD 6.8 million, and in 2023, they jumped sharply to USD 16.4 million. In 2024, exports remained strong at USD 15.1 million, far higher than before 2022.
Angola’s exports to Zambia have also been growing, though from a lower base. In 2024, Angola exported about USD 0.47 million worth of goods to Zambia, up from much lower levels in previous years. While this figure is still modest, it shows clear potential for growth in the other direction as well.
This tells us something important: trade between our two countries is waking up.
Why did trade grow after 2022?
This change did not happen by accident. It followed policy reforms under the New Dawn Administration led by President Hakainde Hichilema.
First, Zambia restored economic stability and credibility. When government finances are managed better and policies are predictable, traders and investors feel more confident. Angolan buyers want to know that supplies will be reliable and contracts honoured. Confidence matters.
Second, agricultural production improved. Better planning and support for farmers led to higher output. Zambia was able to produce more food than it needed, and Angola, being a large food-importing country, became a natural market. This is why products such as cereals, vegetables, oil seeds, and related goods feature strongly in the trade figures.
Third, economic diplomacy became more practical. Zambia began to treat Angola not just as a neighbour, but as a serious commercial partner. This helped move trade beyond informal border exchanges into larger supply chains serving cities and industries.
Trade must work both ways
While Zambia’s exports have grown faster, it is important to say clearly that Angola also has much to offer Zambia.
Angola is an important producer of energy, fuel-related products, industrial inputs, and manufactured goods. As infrastructure improves and transport corridors become more efficient, Angolan exports to Zambia can also expand. Balanced trade strengthens both economies and makes cooperation more sustainable.
Our goal should not be one-sided success, but shared growth.
What comes next
The next phase for both Angola and Zambia must focus on:
• Expanding the range of products traded in both directions including our mutual commitments to regional trade protocols
• Supporting small and medium businesses to trade across borders, from Lobito to Luanshya
• Improving transport, energy links, and border efficiency at Jimbe, Sikongo, Chavuma and more
• Using projects like the Lobito Corridor to reduce costs and open new markets
A shared opportunity
Zambia and Angola share borders, history, and people. The trade gains since 2022 show what is possible when policy is stable and cooperation is real. The task now is to build on this momentum so that trade continues to grow, for farmers, traders, manufacturers, and consumers on both sides of the border.
The progress is real. The opportunity is bigger. The work continues.
Dr. Elias Munshya is Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Zambia to the Republic of Angola
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Rev. Dr. Elias Munshya 
“While I agree that trade has increased, I maintain that this growth is not the result of sound government trade policies. Rather, the increase in trade is largely attributable to the restoration of stability in Angola following years of conflict. Trade between Zambia and Angola dates back to as early as the 1970s; however, historical records show that this trade potential was severely disrupted by prolonged internal conflicts in both countries. As aptly stated: ‘In essence, the trade history from the 1970s was one of interrupted potential, constrained by war, with Angola focused on sustaining a war economy and Zambia navigating complex regional politics, only gradually establishing meaningful trade links in the 21st century.’
Accordingly, claims of policy-driven success amount to unwarranted self-praise. No significant or distinctive trade policies have been implemented thus far. Trade between the two countries is largely consequential and natural, as is typical of neighboring states that share a common border.
Key Trade Aspects:
Minerals: Zambia’s copper exports have historically sought transit routes through Angola to access coastal ports as an alternative to South Africa. Angola’s diamond and oil exports, on the other hand, largely followed different trade channels. –
Border Trade: Informal cross-border trade in food and basic goods likely persisted over time but remained poorly documented due to the instability caused by the war
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