Zambia: Doing business and staying in touch
Doing Business in Zambia
Business culture in Zambia is generally formal, polite and relationship-focused. Initial meetings often begin with greetings and informal conversation before moving on to business matters, and taking time to build trust is considered important. Handshakes are the standard form of greeting, and it is customary to address people by their title and surname unless invited to use first names.
Punctuality is appreciated in professional settings, though meetings may not always start exactly on time. Decision-making can be hierarchical, particularly in government and larger organisations, and patience is often required. A calm, respectful manner is valued, and public confrontation or criticism should be avoided.
Business dress is typically conservative, especially in formal offices and official institutions. Exchanging business cards is common, and hospitality, such as refreshments, may be offered during meetings. Accepting such offers is seen as polite and helps establish rapport.
Office Hours
Mon to Fri, 08:00 to 17:00.
Economy
Zambia has a developing economy that is heavily influenced by natural resources, particularly mining. Copper is the backbone of the economy and a major source of export earnings, with large-scale mining operations concentrated in the Copperbelt and north-western regions. Agriculture also plays an important role, employing a significant proportion of the population and contributing to food production and exports.
In recent years, Zambia has worked to diversify its economy, with growth in sectors such as tourism, energy, construction and services. Tourism is especially important, driven by attractions such as Victoria Falls, national parks and safari tourism. Hydropower is a key source of energy, though the electricity supply can be affected by rainfall levels.
The economy faces ongoing challenges, including debt pressures and vulnerability to global commodity prices, but reforms and investment efforts continue. For visitors, economic conditions are most noticeable in price fluctuations and infrastructure development, particularly in urban areas.
GDP
US$26.33 (2024).
Main exports
Copper, cobalt, gold, gemstones, tobacco, and maize.
Main imports
Fuel, machinery, vehicles, chemicals, fertilisers, and food products.
Main trading partners
China, South Africa, Switzerland, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and the United Arab Emirates.
Keeping in Touch in Zambia
Mobile Phone
Mobile phone coverage in Zambia is generally good in cities, towns and along major highways. The main mobile network operators provide reliable voice and data services in urban areas and popular tourist destinations such as Lusaka, Livingstone and along the main routes to national parks. Coverage becomes weaker or unavailable in remote rural areas and inside some national parks.
Prepaid SIM cards are widely available at airports, mobile phone shops and authorised retailers. Registration is required, and visitors must present a passport to purchase a SIM card. Data packages are affordable, though speeds can vary depending on location and network congestion. International roaming is available but can be expensive, making a local SIM card the most practical option for most visitors.
Internet
Wi-Fi access is available in many hotels, lodges, cafés and restaurants, particularly in Lusaka, Livingstone and other major towns. Connection quality varies, and speeds may be slower than visitors are used to, especially during peak hours or power outages.
In safari lodges and remote areas, Wi-Fi is often limited to common areas and may be restricted or turned off at certain times. Public Wi-Fi is not widespread, so travellers often rely on mobile data as a backup when staying outside major towns.
Media
Zambia's media landscape includes state-owned and privately operated television, radio and print outlets. Radio is the most widely used medium across the country and broadcasts in English as well as several local languages. Television and newspapers are more commonly accessed in urban areas.
International news channels such as BBC World News, CNN and regional African broadcasters are available via satellite television in many hotels and lodges. Online news platforms are widely used, and visitors can easily access international media through the internet. While Zambia generally allows a freer media environment than some neighbouring countries, visitors are advised to exercise discretion when discussing sensitive political topics in public or on social media.
