Zambia Economic Growth Forecast Set at 5.5% for 2026 as IMF Cuts 2025 Growth to 4.5% and Warns of Fiscal Pressures
The International Monetary Fund projects Zambia’s economic growth at 5.5% in 2026 after revising the 2025 forecast down to 4.5% due to weaker mining and energy constraints. The mission also noted progress in debt restructuring, stronger reserves, declining inflation, and emerging fiscal pressures ahead of the elections.
Zambia Ranks 3rd in Africa for Mining Investment as Improved Policy Framework Boosts Global Ranking
The 2025 Fraser Institute survey ranks Zambia as the 3rd most attractive destination for mining investment in Africa, achieving a global rank of 25th out of 68 jurisdictions. Zambia leads regional peers like Tanzania in overall attractiveness, driven by a combination of significant mineral potential and a strengthening policy framework.
IMF Completes Sixth Review of Zambia Extended Credit Facility, Approves USD 190 million with GDP Growth Projected at 5.8% and Inflation at 9.3% in 2026
The International Monetary Fund has completed the sixth and final review of Zambia’s Extended Credit Facility, approving a USD 190 million disbursement and bringing total programme support to USD 1.7 billion. The Fund estimates GDP growth at 5.2% in 2025, driven by strong mining activity and record maize production, and projects growth of 5.8% in 2026, supported by improved electricity generation and continued expansion in mining and services, while inflation is projected to decline to 9.3%.
United States Imposes Partial Travel Restrictions on Zambia Affecting Business, Tourism, Study, and Immigration From January 1, 2026
The United States has announced partial travel restrictions on Zambia effective January 1, 2026, covering business, tourism, student, exchange, and immigrant visa categories. The decision is based on visa overstay data and screening assessments under a presidential proclamation.
Dot Com IPO in Zambia Oversubscribed by 114% and Closes Early on LuSE
The Lusaka Securities Exchange announced that the Dot Com IPO in Zambia was oversubscribed by 114% and closed one week ahead of schedule. The offer attracted strong retail participation and a high share of subscriptions from Zambian investors, with trading expected to begin on 17 December 2025.
Tanzanian Amsons Group To Develop 1,300MW Of Solar And Coal Power Projects In Zambia Worth USD 900 Million
Tanzania's Amsons Group and Exergy Africa Limited will invest USD 900 million to develop 1,300MW of new power capacity in Zambia, including 1,000MW of solar and 300MW of coal. The partners aim to meet Zambia’s future energy demand, improve grid reliability, and support industrial expansion.
S&P Upgrades Zambia Rating to ‘CCC+’ on Debt Restructuring and Copper Production Growth
S&P Global Ratings has upgraded Zambia's long-term foreign currency sovereign credit rating to 'CCC+' from 'SD' following significant progress in debt negotiations. The agency highlights a stable outlook driven by a 17.8% increase in copper production in H1 2025 and improved fiscal performance.
Zambia and Tanzania Launch Major TAZARA Railway Rehabilitation to Boost Regional Trade
The TAZARA railway rehabilitation was officially launched during a ceremony in Lusaka marking the commencement of major upgrade works. The launch is expected to improve trade flows, transport efficiency, and economic links between Zambia, Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Southern African countries.
IMF Projects Zambia’s GDP to Reach 5.2% in 2026, Citing Economic Resilience, Eased Inflation, and Reform Progress in 2025 Extended Credit Facility Review
The IMF concluded its 2025 review of the Extended Credit Facility with Zambia, projecting GDP growth of 5.2% in 2026 following 4.5% growth in early 2025. The IMF cited easing inflation, improved liquidity, strong investor demand, and steady reform progress in governance, fiscal management, and private sector participation.
IMF Projects Zambia GDP to Grow by 5.8% in 2025 and 6.4% in 2026, Inflation to Ease to 9.2%
The IMF’s October 2025 Regional Economic Outlook projects Zambia’s GDP growth at 5.8% in 2025 and 6.4% in 2026, with inflation easing to 9.2%. The report highlights Zambia’s fiscal recovery, surplus outlook, and tax policy lessons as the country continues its debt restructuring process.