Doing business
Business culture
Business tips
Zambians are generally approachable and friendly people and their business culture is relaxed. Shaking of hands is the common form of greeting before and after meetings. It is not common practice for business cards to be exchanged at the start of a meeting. It can be difficult to secure appointments in Zambia and contacts may take some time to respond to requests. It can be more productive to contact people by telephone in advance to establish the context for your request before emailing them. It is essential to confirm all appointments.
Links and resources
Government, business and trade
Zambia Development Agency – www.zda.org.zm
Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry – www.mcti.gov.zm
Zambia Revenue Authority – www.zra.org.zm
News and media
The Post – www.postzambia.com
Zambia Daily Mail – www.daily-mail.co.zm
Please note: this list of websites and resources is not definitive. Inclusion in this list does not imply endorsement by Austrade. The information provided is a guide only.
Top Business Risks
OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises
Multinational Enterprises should be aware of the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises that provide voluntary principles and standards for responsible business behaviour in a variety of areas, consistent with applicable domestic laws. These Guidelines are endorsed and promoted by the Australian Government. For more information, go to the AusNCP website.
Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative
The Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) is a voluntary mechanism which promotes and supports improved governance in resource-rich countries through the full publication and verification of company payments and government revenues from oil, gas, and mining.
The EITI is supported by governments, industry, and non-government organisations around the world. The Australian Government supports the EITI and encourages Australian companies operating internationally to comply with its recommendations.