Zambia Targets 3 Million Tonnes of Copper by 2031 as Government Promotes Investment in Critical Minerals and Energy Sector
The Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) has called on global investors to seize emerging opportunities in Zambia’s critical minerals and energy sectors, positioning the country as a leading investment destination in Africa.
Speaking at the 21st Shanghai Metals Market Copper Industry Conference and Expo (SMMCCIE), ZDA Director General Albert Halwampa highlighted Zambia’s strong policy framework, stable macroeconomic fundamentals, peaceful political environment, and the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema as key drivers underpinning the country’s growing global competitiveness.
Mr. Halwampa emphasized that Zambia is targeting an increase in copper production to 3 million metric tonnes per annum by 2031, up from the current output of approximately 890,000 tonnes.
He noted that this growth will be supported by progressive policies such as the National Mineral Resource Development Policy and the National Critical Minerals Strategy.
He further stated that Zambia currently contributes about 5 percent of global copper supply and ranks as the second-largest copper producer in Africa.
In addition, the country accounts for roughly 38 percent of Africa’s manganese production, positioning it as a strategic hub for critical raw materials.
“Zambia is not only rich in critical minerals such as copper, cobalt, manganese, lithium, and nickel, but is also focused on enhancing value addition and industrialisation to maximize the economic benefits derived from these resources,” he said.
The Director General underscored the Government’s commitment to maintaining a conducive investment climate through investor-friendly policies and competitive investment incentives designed to attract both local and international investors.
Mr. Halwampa also highlighted significant investment opportunities in the energy sector, noting that the Government is working to increase electricity generation capacity from approximately 3,800 megawatts (MW) to 10,000 MW by 2031.
This expansion will be driven by efforts to diversify the country’s energy mix away from over-reliance on hydropower toward other renewable and alternative sources, including solar photovoltaic (PV), wind, waste-to-energy, geothermal, and thermal power generation.
He added that Zambia’s strategic geographic location provides access to a combined market of more than 1.3 billion people under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), making the country an ideal hub for regional trade, manufacturing, and industrial development.
Mr. Halwampa concluded by inviting global investors to participate in the Invest Zambia International Conference (IZIC) 2026 and to explore opportunities in Zambia’s expanding economy, particularly in mineral processing, renewable energy, and value chain development within Multi-Facility Economic Zones.
“Zambia offers stability, opportunity, and a clear vision for sustainable growth. Now is the time to invest,” he said.
The ZDA Director General also pledged the Agency’s support for the first-ever Shanghai Metals Market (SMM) Conference on Critical Minerals to be held in Lusaka in October 2026.
He further welcomed the company’s decision to establish its first African office in Lusaka, describing the move as a strong vote of confidence in Zambia’s growing role as a regional hub for trade and investment.
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