Expats doing business in Zambia will find themselves in a politically stable country that has seen positive economic growth recently. The capital, Lusaka, the tourist hub of Livingstone, and the mineral-rich Copperbelt are the most important commercial centres and where the majority of Zambia’s population live.
Much of Zambia’s economic growth has been attributed to the privatisation of the mining sector, which has managed to attract much foreign investment in recent years. Zambia is rich in natural resources and is the world’s largest producer of copper. Agriculture is another significant sector.
Despite positive growth, challenges remain with doing business in Zambia: corruption and nepotism are pervasive, while other obstacles to economic growth include widespread poverty and poor service delivery and infrastructure.
Fast facts
Business hours
Working hours are generally between 8am and 5pm, which includes a one-hour lunch break.
Business language
English is the official language of Zambia and the most widely spoken language in business circles. If you’re working in more rural areas and in mining communities, you would do well to learn key phrases and greetings in the relevant local dialects.
Dress
Although men are not expected to wear a suit and tie, business attire is usually smart. This can vary depending on the company and industry, though. Smart trousers and a shirt are typically acceptable. Women should dress conservatively and avoid exposing their shoulders and legs.
Gifts
Gift-giving is not common in business circles. With the prevalence of corruption, such gifts may be misconstrued as bribes.
Gender equality
Although men still occupy most senior roles in business, women have equal rights in Zambia.
Greeting
In Zambian business circles, a firm handshake is the norm when greeting a woman. It’s best to wait for her to extend her hand first.
Business culture in Zambia
Communication
Titles are important in Zambia and should be used when greeting associates, especially in official government circles. The most senior individuals in a room should be greeted first. Associates should be addressed formally using their title and surname.
Culture
As an expat doing business in Zambia, you will need to learn patience when it comes to dealing with local associates and the bureaucratic procedures that accompany business dealings. Meetings are never rushed, and contract negotiations can take time. In line with this, Zambians are friendly and genuinely interested in other people; a proper greeting and small talk are common at the beginning of meetings, with conversation covering topics such as family, one’s health, and sports.
Management
Business structures in Zambia are hierarchical, and decisions are made from the top. Unfortunately, corruption remains an ongoing concern in the Zambian government and business circles, and it’s not unusual to be faced with the expectation of extracting a bribe to make connections and win contracts. Networking and making important connections within the business and political sphere may go a long way to opening up opportunities in Zambia.
Dos and don’ts of business in Zambia
- Do always greet Zambian associates politely
- Don’t address a Zambian colleague by their first name unless invited to do so first
- Do be prepared to start meetings with small talk about personal matters
- Don’t rush Zambian counterparts. Business dealings take time in Zambia, and it’s essential to always be polite and respectful.
- Do dress smartly for business meetings. First impressions and appearances are critical.
- Do be prepared to network and make important connections within Zambian business and political circles to facilitate commercial opportunities