Zambia Launches Beef Exports to the DRC

President Hakainde Hichilema has announced that Zambia has officially begun exporting beef to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), marking a key milestone in the country’s agricultural trade ambitions. The first shipment, valued at US$62,635, represents the start of Zambia’s drive to achieve US$1 billion in beef exports by 2030, with the DRC and Angola identified as priority markets.

Under the new arrangement, livestock farmers will earn US$4.5 per kilogramme, half of the US$9 per kilogramme value chain price.

Speaking at the official opening of the Southern Province Investment Forum and Exposition yesterday, President Hichilema commended livestock farmers for their dedication, noting that many worked through the night to make the inaugural shipment possible.

“They were slaughtering in Kalomo but the cattle are from Namwala, and this is how working together is supposed to be done,” President Hichilema explained.

Themed ‘Unlocking Investment Opportunities for Socio-Economic Transformation through Strategic Partnership and Innovation’, the Southern Province Expo highlights the power of collaboration between the public and private sectors, traditional leadership, and neighbouring countries. The successful launch of beef exports to the DRC underscores how organised investment and cross-border cooperation can drive regional growth and prosperity.