The Zambia Development Agency is leading a delegation of 41 local companies on a trade mission to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) from October 28–30, 2026, to expand the nation’s regional export footprint.

In a statement, ZDA Head of Communication and Public Relations Kwali Mfuni stated that the trade mission to the DRC is designed to expand market access, facilitate commercial agreements, and reinforce the country’s regional trade standing.

“The mission will feature exhibitions and business-to-business (B2B) meetings designed to connect Zambian businesses with potential buyers, distributors, investors, and strategic partners in the Congolese market,” said.

Mfuni said the delegation comprises 10 large companies and 31 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating across key economic sectors, reflecting the diversity and growing capacity of Zambia’s private sector to supply regional markets.

She noted that while some companies are participating in a trade mission to the DRC for the first time, others are returning to build on relationships established during previous engagements, secure additional orders, and translate existing business discussions into concrete commercial deals.

“The DRC remains a strategic export market for Zambia, given its geographical proximity and demand for a wide range of products and services. By facilitating direct business engagements and market linkages, the ZDA continues to support Zambian businesses in accessing regional markets, strengthening their competitiveness, and expanding their export opportunities,” Mfuni said.

She called on participating companies to maximize the mission’s impact by forging strong, long-term partnerships—key drivers for expanding exports, boosting domestic production, securing investment, and generating jobs across Zambia.

Mfuni emphasized that the trade mission reinforces the Grow Zambia Agenda—the Government’s strategy to accelerate economic growth, strengthen local production, spur private sector investment, and elevate Zambia in international trade.

“Through initiatives such as this, the ZDA reaffirms its commitment to promoting Zambian products and services beyond national borders, positioning local businesses to take advantage of emerging market opportunities and contributing to the country’s broader economic transformation agenda.”