India Zambia relations

The bilateral relations between India and Zambia is defined as “all – weather and time tested.” Zambian freedom struggle drew inspiration from Indian leaders, especially Mahatma Gandhi.

Over the years India has offered extensive economic support to Zambia. In 2003, India extended a line of credit of 3 million USD. After the third IAFS, India offered ITEC slots for Zambian citizens. Currently, India is constructing 650 rural health projects under a line of credit of 68 million USD. Zambia is also a part of the CTAP – Cotton Technical Assistance Program being organized by India in several African countries. Zambia is also a part of the DFTP – Duty Free Tariff Preference Scheme that India committed during the WTO Hong Kong ministerial declaration, 2005.

The bilateral trade between the countries have been growing steadily. In 2015 – 16, India exported 770 million USD worth goods to Zambia. It includes pharmaceuticals, drugs, machinery, transportation equipment, cotton yarn, rubber, plastic and electronic goods. In the same year, India imported 475 million USD worth goods. It includes non – ferrous metals, semi – precious stones, raw cotton and ores.

Zambia is rich in natural resources and hence is an important destination for Indian investors. India is the leading investor of Zambia. So far, India has invested 5 billion USD. In 1984, Indo – Zambia bank was established with 3 Indian banks participating. The Indian banks hold 60% equity in the Indo – Zambia bank.

India helped to train several Zambian armed force personnel. Since 1994, 4 Indian army officers were posted to the Defense services command and staff college in Zambia.

There are about 25,000 Indians living in Zambia.