Economic growth keeps truck wheels turning

Zambia’s freight volumes are growing, along with gross domestic product (GDP) growth of around 4% in 2024.

“The Zambian economy demonstrated resilience in 2024, despite a severe drought and global headwinds,” said Mercedes Vera Martin, who led an International Monetary Fund (IMF) review team which visited the country in late April and early May 2025.

“Real GDP growth is estimated at 4% in 2024 — driven by stronger-than-projected mining and non-mining activity, especially in ICT, financial services and construction, as well as a less severe contraction in agriculture than initially envisaged.

“Growth momentum is expected to continue in 2025, with real GDP growth projected at 5.8%.

“Economic activity will be supported by a rebound in agricultural output, increased copper production, and a gradual recovery in electricity generation, although electricity shortages and reliance on energy imports are expected to persist,” she added.

In its July 2025 Zambian economic update, the World Bank warns that “significant risks persist due to lower global growth, emerging uncertainties in trade policies, and frequent climatic events.

“Still, over the medium term, growth is expected to benefit from broad-based momentum across various sectors, with the mining sector presenting a distinct opportunity to leverage economic transformation to benefit all Zambians”.

  • Read the full article in our latest Freight Features edition on “Zambia”.