ZAMBIAN ECONOMY SHOWS STRONG GROWTH IN 2026 LUSAKA, ZAMBIA – Zambia’s economy has demonstrated robust growth in 2026, marking a significant improvement from recent years.
The nation’s inflation rate has seen a notable decline, reaching its lowest level since early 2018, driven by a marginal deceleration in price increases across multiple sectors.
The Southern African country’s inflation rate fell to 6. 5% in June 2026, down from 6. 6% in May.
This decline is a testament to Zambia’s strong economic recovery, with the consumer price index recording a year-on-year increase of 6. 5%. This represents a decrease from the 11.
2% inflation rate recorded in December 2025.
The country’s economic performance has been bolstered by its currency appreciation, which rose 16% against the U. S. Dollar, and the sale of its most valuable resource, copper, which is experiencing higher global demand.
Zambia, alongside the Democratic Republic of Congo, holds Africa’s highest copper reserves and aims to increase copper production to over one million tonnes by 2026. Zambia’s economic recovery has been recognized by international bodies, with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) acknowledging the nation’s economic resilience and the tangible results of its reform programme.
The IMF announced a Staff — Level Agreement (SLA) with Zambia to complete the sixth and final review under the country’s Extended Credit Facility (ECF) arrangement, totaling $7 billion.
The government’s ambitious plans to boost copper output are expected to attract international investment, further enhancing the country’s economic prospects. Zambia produced a record 890,000 tons of copper in 2025 and aims to triple production to three million tonnes by 2031.
The Secretary to the Treasury, Felix Nkulukusa, emphasized the government’s commitment to implementing economic and energy sector reforms aimed at strengthening macroeconomic stability, attracting private investment, and supporting sustainable growth.
The positive economic outlook has been welcomed by both domestic and international stakeholders, with the World Bank expressing optimism about Zambia’s future, noting the country’s resilience and potential for continued growth.
As Zambia’s economic trajectory improves, the country is likely to see increased investment in key sectors, leading to job creation and improved living standards for its citizens.
The successful implementation of economic reforms and the reduction in inflation rates are significant milestones for Zambia’s economic recovery and future growth prospects, aligning with its broader goal of achieving sustainable development and economic diversification.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Africa.businessinsider
Source: Chinedu Okafor
