The Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprise Development has welcomed China's decision to remove tariffs on goods from 53 African countries, describing it as a transformative opportunity for Zambian small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to penetrate one of the world's largest consumer markets.

Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprise Development Permanent Secretary Subeta Mutelo said in an interview with the media, that the tariff removal presents a strategic opening for local enterprises to expand beyond domestic borders, but stressed that preparedness and competitiveness will determine how much Zambia benefits from the development.

Ms. Mutelo said SMEs must now position themselves to meet the standards required in the Chinese market, adding that government is working closely with key institutions to ensure export readiness.

She explained that the Ministry is collaborating with the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry, the Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) and the Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA), among other institutions, to equip SMEs with the necessary skills and technical support.

“The opportunity is there, but our SMEs must ensure that their products meet the required standards. As government, we are actively working to prepare them to export competitively,” she said.

Ms. Mutelo added that capacity building programmes are being strengthened to go beyond basic entrepreneurship training, incorporating lessons on quality assurance, compliance and export procedures.

She noted that the Ministry is also working closely with standards bodies to ensure that value-added products meet international benchmarks, emphasising that Zambia must move away from exporting raw materials to exporting finished and competitive products.

“We are focusing on value addition. It is important that SMEs do not just export raw materials, but finished products that meet the standards of the target market,” she said.

Ms. Mutelo further highlighted the importance of branding and packaging, stating that attractive and professional presentation plays a very important role in competing in international markets such as China.

She said SMEs are being trained not only in financial management and bookkeeping, but also in product development, branding and packaging to enhance their visibility and market appeal.

Meanwhile, the Ministry is also promoting the strengthening of local markets and encouraging the uptake of Zambian products in chain stores and domestic supply chains, noting that building a strong local presence is key to sustaining international competitiveness.

Ms. Mutelo said government remains committed to ensuring that SMEs are supported through funding mechanisms and institutional partnerships to fully utilize emerging trade opportunities, adding that the tariff removal should serve as a catalyst for industrial growth, value addition and increased participation of Zambian enterprises in global trade.