Zambia has become the third country in Africa to commission a glucose and starch processing plant, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s industrial and agricultural development. The newly established facility, located in Chongwe District, was officially opened by the President of the Republic of Zambia, who witnessed the event alongside senior government officials and industry stakeholders.
Speaking at the inauguration, Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry, Hon. Chipoka Mulenga, commended the private sector particularly Trade Kings Group for playing a pivotal role in advancing the government’s industrial transformation agenda through strategic, localized investment.
“Trade Kings continues to demonstrate its commitment to Zambia’s economic growth by investing in manufacturing capabilities that not only support job creation but also enhance value addition within our local agricultural sector,” said Hon. Mulenga.
Trade Kings, a leading player in Zambia’s industrial landscape, boasts a diversified portfolio ranging from household cleaning products to food and beverage lines. The commissioning of the glucose and starch plant further expands its manufacturing footprint and reinforces its position as a key off-taker in the agricultural value chain.
The new facility is expected to significantly reduce Zambia’s dependency on imported glucose and starch, both of which are essential inputs in the food, beverage, and chemical industries. For years, Trade Kings relied on imports to meet its production needs this shift to domestic production is poised to reduce the national import bill while promoting local value addition.
Moreover, the development is aligned with Zambia’s broader goals of industrialization, job creation and sustainable economic diversification. By bridging critical gaps in the agricultural value chain, the new plant serves as a model for public-private collaboration aimed at fostering economic resilience and inclusive growth.