Business Daily Zambia: Copper country
Jul 29, 2025
Trevor Samumba, an international development economist based in Lusaka, discusses the heavy reliance of Zambia on its copper industry. With the U.S. introducing a 50% tariff on copper imports, the potential impact on Zambia's economy can be significant. Samumba highlights how copper shapes employment and culture in the country, while addressing the broader implications for global trade. Despite price volatility, he remains optimistic about the long-term demand for copper, particularly in emerging tech sectors like EVs and data centers.
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Copper's Central Role in Zambia
- Copper accounts for over 70% of Zambia's foreign exchange earnings and is deeply tied to jobs and society.
- The economy is heavily reliant on copper, making it hard to diversify away from it.
Corporate Hospitality in Copperbelt
- Veronica Ryder’s hotel primarily serves corporate clients tied to the mines, including international guests.
- The region's economy relies heavily on business from the mining sector, with minimal tourism.
US Tariffs Shift Copper Markets
- The US imposed tariffs aim to boost domestic copper production and reduce import reliance.
- The tariffs disrupt copper flows, affect global prices, and could improve availability outside the US.