EU, Sweden, Finland, and Czech Republic Back Zambia’s Lobito Corridor to Drive Regional Trade and Economic Transformation
The European Union (EU) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Lobito Corridor project, citing its potential to enhance regional connectivity, trade, and economic growth across Southern Africa.
Speaking during the official opening of the EU–Zambia Lobito Corridor Business Forum in Chongwe, Swedish Director General for Trade Policy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Camilla Mellander, said the EU views the corridor as a catalyst for regional integration and sustainable development.
Ms. Mellander emphasized that Sweden’s success is founded on collaboration, innovation, and sustainability, values that align with Zambia’s own development priorities. She reiterated her country’s commitment to partnering with Zambia in achieving inclusive and long-term economic growth.
Finnish Under Secretary of State, Pasi Hellman, underscored the importance of global cooperation and strong partnerships in promoting sustainable development.
He noted that many Finnish companies are already operating in Zambia, contributing to the country’s ambitious target of producing three million tonnes of copper annually.
Adding his voice, Czech Republic Deputy Minister, Jiri Kozak, said Czech companies are ready to deliver innovative and sustainable solutions that will foster employment and create lasting impact. He highlighted that the Lobito Corridor will not only boost regional trade but also diversify Zambia’s exports and improve the country’s connection to global markets.
Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) Director General, Albert Halwampa, said the corridor offers vast investment opportunities in sectors such as mining, agriculture, and energy.
He encouraged European investors to tap into Zambia’s rich mineral resources and participate in the mineral value chain, particularly in electric vehicle (EV) battery production and related manufacturing industries.
Head of the Presidential Delivery Unit, Kusobile Kamwambi, said the Business Forum aims to attract investments in logistics, digital infrastructure, and agribusiness.
She revealed that the groundbreaking ceremony for the Lobito Corridor railway project is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2026, with preparations progressing on schedule.
Ms. Kamwambi further announced that the African Development Bank (AfDB) has expressed readiness to provide USD 500 million to support corridor interventions, including road construction and the establishment of agro-processing plants.
