The EU-Zambia Lobito Corridor Business Forum opened in Chongwe with both sides reaffirming their partnership to boost regional trade and investment. EU delegates from Sweden, Finland, and the Czech Republic pledged support for projects in mining, energy, and agriculture, while Zambia highlighted opportunities in electric vehicle production. President Hakainde Hichilema called the corridor a “corridor of opportunities” for job creation, industrialization, and stronger EU-Africa trade ties.

Vedanta Resources has launched CopperTech Metals, a US-based company that will own and operate Zambia’s Konkola Copper Mines. The firm plans a $1.5 billion investment to modernize operations and boost copper output from 140,000 to 300,000 tonnes by 2031. CopperTech aims to link US critical mineral needs with Zambia’s copper sector, leveraging AI technology and the Lobito Corridor for exports. Zambia’s ZCCM-IH retains a 20.6% stake in KCM.

Zambia’s Vice President Mutale Nalumango commissioned Xpoint Investment’s US$15 million gold processing plant in Mumbwa, calling it a milestone in the country’s industrialization drive. The facility, capable of processing 800 tonnes of ore daily, is expected to create jobs and boost local value addition. Nalumango said the investment supports the government’s Vision 2030 agenda. He said it’s in line with sustainable growth and urged more investors to adopt environmentally friendly mining practices.

President Hakainde Hichilema reaffirmed Zambia’s readiness to attract investment in the energy sector, welcoming Chinese companies planning renewable and electric vehicle projects worth up to US$12 million. He urged speedy implementation to meet electricity needs. Meanwhile, former Energy Minister Yamfwa Mukanga criticized the government for lacking new strategies, saying Zambians have lost hope in the sector. The contrasting views highlight both optimism and concern over Zambia’s energy future.

The Zambian government has dismissed social media claims that it cancelled its maize export deal with Malawi, calling the reports false and malicious. Information Minister Cornelius Mweetwa said relations between the two nations remain strong and that the agreement stands. He warned against spreading fake news and clarified that maize trade falls under the Agriculture Ministry. The statement reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to regional cooperation and food security.

The Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) has closed Dashun Industry Company Limited, a zinc oxide smelter in Kabwe, for repeatedly violating environmental laws. Plant supervisor Cao Honjian was arrested after the company defied a shutdown order and continued operating illegally. ZEMA said the firm had discharged toxic zinc oxide into the environment despite multiple warnings and deadlines. The agency vowed strict enforcement against future offenders.