Business community urged to tap into export…

The Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) has urged the business community in the country to position themselves and take advantage of export financing opportunities in order to penetrate regional and international markets. ZDA Director General, Albert Halwampa, notes that access to finance remains critical for businesses seeking to expand beyond the domestic market. Mr Halwampa says businesses aspiring to access export markets must not only identify business opportunities but also demonstrate sound financial management, operational efficiency, adequate production capacity, credible markets and the ability to meet financing obligations.

Mr Halwampa said the workshop seeks to help businesses understand the requirements for accessing export financing through the Zambia Export Development Fund (ZEDF). He explained that ZEDF provides affordable financing to help businesses strengthen working capital, increase production, undertake value addition and fulfil export orders. Mr Halwampa encouraged participants to actively engage during the workshop and take advantage of the opportunity to better understand the financing services available under ZEDF.

The ZDA Chief also commended the media for supporting efforts aimed at raising awareness of export financing opportunities available to Zambian businesses. Meanwhile, Zambia Export Development Fund (ZEDF) Manager, David Chewe, said Zambian businesses have significant potential to grow beyond the domestic market and increase their participation in regional and international trade. Dr Chewe said the workshop is intended to provide tailored information to businesses operating in Lusaka Province on how they can access export financing and exploit opportunities in export markets.

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He described Lusaka as the country’s principal commercial and business hub, noting that its economy is driven by diverse sectors including manufacturing, agro-processing, trade, logistics, technology and professional services. Dr Chewe observed that unlike other regions whose economies are largely dependent on mining or seasonal activities, Lusaka’s economy operates throughout the year, making it strategically positioned to drive Zambia’s export growth.

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