Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry

A DELEGATION of Australian investors is next month expected to visit Zambia and plans to pump Aus $4 billion  (about K20.9 trillion) in various sectors of the economy. The first group of Australian investors is scheduled to arrive in Zambia on February 12, 2012.
Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry Robert Sichinga in an interview said the Australians are interested in energy, agriculture, tourism and infrastructure.
“The Australians have been asking us what we can offer and are keen to invest in Zambia’s attractions.

They have a whole range of sectors that they would like to invest in, it’s up to us as a country to market what we have,” he said. Mr Sichinga said Government is ready to work with investors from every part of the continent as long as they follow the laws of the country.
He said there is need to develop Zambia from what it is today to an industrious nation that will create wealth for its people and reduce poverty.
“It’s up to us as Zambians to develop a model that will attract investors and create a legacy for our future generation. That is how nations are built. The Patriotic Front government would certainly love to leave a legacy for its people,” he said.
Mr Sichinga said Zambia has abundant natural resources that are not being used to its fullness, adding that the country cannot continue exporting raw copper. He said it is important to create the infrastructure that will utilise the country’s natural endowment and turn the comparative advantage into a competitive advantage.
Commenting on the US$ three billion investment target for this year that has reduced from US$ 4 million set in 2011 by the Zambia Development Agency; Mr Sichinga said Government expects some level of deep investment as investors worry about change in policies.
He said Government is working on minimising this fear, adding that although some policies will change, this will not affect the flow of both local and foreign investments. He said Government has proposed a number of international visits to market the various sectors for development.
“We want employment to be created, foreign currency generated and brought back to the country. There is need to create infrastructure in the country and enhance the standard of living for Zambians. We want a win-win situation for all of us,” he said.

Daily Mail