Qatar Chamber, Zambia Development Agency review fostering investment relations

Qatar Chamber hosted on Wednesday a delegation from the Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) led by its director general, Albert Halwampa.

Qatar Chamber second vice-chairman Rashid bin Hamad al-Athba presided over the Qatari side of the meeting, which several Qatari businessmen and members of the Zambian delegation attended.

The meeting addressed ways to enhance economic and commercial co-operation between Qatar and Zambia, the investment opportunities available in Zambia, and the incentives provided for foreign investors.

At the meeting, al-Athba said both countries are bound by close relations, noting that trade exchange is still below expectations. He affirmed that co-operation between the private sectors would enhance their trade volume.

Al-Athba emphasised the interest of Qatari businessmen in exploring the available opportunities in Zambia as part of Qatar’s broader strategy to invest in Africa, which offers promising prospects across all sectors and aligns with Qatar’s economic diversification goals.

He reiterated that Qatar Chamber encourages Qatari businessmen to invest in Zambia, stressing that it is an attractive destination with numerous opportunities in infrastructure, agriculture, mining, and other sectors.

In turn, Halwampa said Zambia is focusing on promoting trade and investment. He referred to the visit of Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema to Qatar more than two years ago, which he described as a starting point for increased co-operation between both countries.

He pointed out that Zambia is progressing rapidly and is eager to enhance the private sector's role in the Zambian economy. Halwampa underlined that the investment climate is at its best, particularly due to leading legislation that attracts international and Qatari investments.

Halwampa emphasised the commitment to removing all obstacles facing Qatari investments in Zambia and providing incentives and facilities in the mining, agriculture, energy, industry, and infrastructure sectors, among others.

Further, he expressed his aspiration to strengthen co-operation with Qatar Chamber to develop mutual investments and co-operative relations between the private sectors of Zambia and Qatar. During the meeting, the Zambian delegation gave a presentation about features of the Zambian economy, investment climate and opportunities, as well as incentives offered for foreign investors.