Zambia’s Minister of Tourism, Rodney Sikumba, today delivered an address at the prestigious 2025 Osaka Business Forum, highlighting Zambia’s readiness and commitment to deepening trade and investment relations with Japan.
The Forum is taking place on the eve of Zambia’s Country Day at the ongoing Osaka World Expo.
Representing The President of the Republic of Zambia, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, Sikumba conveyed heartfelt gratitude to the Government and People of Japan for their continued support and friendship.
Minister Sikumba emphasised the importance of such high-level engagements, noting that this was the second business forum held in Japan this year, following the Tokyo Business Forum; reiterating President Hichilema’s approach towards economic diplomacy.
In his address, he outlined Zambia’s resilient economic trajectory, citing a 4.0% GDP growth in 2024 despite the historic 2023/24 drought and commended the Zambian private sector for its significant contribution to economic stability.
He reassured the forum of Zambia’s strong macroeconomic policies, political stability and ambitious national targets across key sectors including mining, energy, agriculture, and tourism.
“Zambia is open for business and we are intentional about everything. We are targeting electricity generation of 10GW and copper production of 3 million metric tons by 2031. In tourism, we aim to exceed our record of 2.3 million international arrivals in 2024. These goals present real, tangible opportunities for private sector partnerships,” the Minister said.
He called upon Japanese business leaders to explore Public-Private Partnership (PPP), Joint Ventures with Zambian companies and leverage the country’s strategic location as a peaceful regional hub in Southern Africa. Hon. Sikumba also underscored the need to explore Japanese technology and innovation, and use them to unlock Zambia’s full economic potential for mutual benefit to both Zambia and Japan.
In sharing details on opportunities in the mining sector, Minister of Mines and Minerals Development, Honourable Paul Kabuswe, who is part of the delegation, stated.
“We are restructuring the mining sector for transparency, efficiency and sustainability. Japanese investors are welcome to partner with us in both mineral extraction and value addition. This is the right time to come on board.”
