Government Moves to Reduce Reliance on Borrowing

Government is stepping up efforts to boost domestic revenue and reduce Zambia's dependence on borrowing to finance national development.

The Ministry of Finance and National Planning says this ambition lies at the heart of the 2027 to 2031 Medium-Term Revenue Strategy, with public consultations set to begin on Thursday, 3rd September 2026, in Lusaka.

According to the Ministry, the strategy is designed to create a more predictable and efficient revenue system, moving away from the fragmented, year-to-year tax measures of the past. Stronger domestic revenue collection, it says, is essential to open up fiscal space for priority sectors such as infrastructure, agriculture, energy, social protection and public services.

The Ministry says the strategy will also place strong emphasis on improving tax compliance and closing revenue leakages. To this end, the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) will roll out measures anchored on digitalisation, greater use of data and risk-based compliance systems.

The proposed reforms, the Ministry adds, are intended to make it easier for compliant taxpayers to meet their obligations, while tightening the net around tax evasion and ensuring everyone pays their fair share.

The upcoming consultations will bring together Government, business, agriculture, mining, tourism, civil society and other stakeholders, allowing for broad input into shaping the strategy.

This is according to a statement issued by the Office of the Secretary to the Treasury, which reaffirmed Government's commitment to building a stronger, self-reliant economy anchored on sustainable domestic financing.