By Cecilia Chiluba/Zambia/Lusaka
Zambia’s exports to the United States are on course to nearly double in 2025, marking a significant boost in trade between Zambia and the U.S.
Trade statistics show strong growth in Zambia’s export performance to the American market.
Speaking at an economic outlook meeting in Lusaka, Senior Commercial Officer at the U.S. Embassy in Zambia, Kully Nelson said two-way trade in goods between the two countries stood at about US$282 million in 2024, with approximately US$113 million in U.S. goods exports to Zambia and about US$168 million in Zambian exports to the United States.
Mr. Nelson, however, noted that 2025 figures indicate a sharp rise in exports from Zambia.
“In 2025 alone, Zambian exports to the US, according to the Commerce Agency through November alone are already US$313 million on pace to nearly double, while U.S. exports to Zambia are about on par,” he said.
Mr. Nelson attributed the improvement to renewed engagement between the two countries and a deliberate focus on strengthening private sector partnerships.
“The U.S. and Zambia have committed to resetting the U.S.-Zambia relationship. Our engagements over the last one year have been examples of breaking the pattern of business as usual,” Mr. Nelson remarked.
He added that the United States remains committed to promoting transparent and accountable investment in Zambia.
“Zambia offers all the foundational ingredients for growth — abundant natural resources, critical minerals, vast land, resilient and talented population,” he stressed.
Mr. Nelson emphasized that sustainable economic growth requires sound reforms that incentivize private investment, noting that investor appetite for Zambia remains strong.
“Too often what is needed for economic growth and development is not more money, but sound reforms that incentivize enduring private investment and growth,” he stated.
“Anyone who has been here… just knows how strong investor appetite is for Zambia. And for the right reasons,” Mr. Nelson said.
With exports to the U.S. showing significant growth in 2025, stakeholders say the upward trend could further strengthen trade ties and contribute to Zambia’s broader economic recovery and growth agenda.
