Government has assured investors that it is committed to fairness and accountability in tax administration, while maintaining a predictable and transparent business environment, as part of efforts to support sustainable economic growth and investor confidence.
Minister of Finance Minister and National Development, Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane emphasized the importance of ensuring strict adherence to the rule of law in taxation and the government’s pledge to create conditions in which businesses can thrive.
Dr. Musokotwane stressed that tax compliance is central to national development and must be upheld by all taxpayers.
The Minister urged businesses to fulfill their legal obligations by paying their fair share of taxes.
He said this in a speech read on his behalf by Ministry of Finance Permanent Secretary Prudence Kaoma, at a tax compliance and risk management workshop, organized by the Chinese Mining Enterprises Association in Zambia (CMEAZ).
“Tax compliance is not just a statutory obligation, it is a fundamental duty that directly supports national development,” Dr. Musokotwane said.
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Dr. Musokotwane stressed that Government remains unwavering in its resolve to ensure that tax laws and policies are applied consistently and impartially.
“All taxpayers in Zambia will be treated in a fair, transparent and equitable manner in all tax matters. Dispute resolution mechanisms are in place to address concerns promptly,” he stated.
He also stated that the government remains steadfast in its commitment to providing an enabling, predictable and transparent environment in which the private sector can flourish.
Dr. Musokotwane stressed that the government will continue implementing reforms to enhance regulatory efficiency and unlock investment across key sectors, in line with Zambia’s development agenda.
Speaking earlier, Economic and Commercial Counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Zambia Jin Jun, urged all Chinese enterprises in Zambia to pay taxes in accordance with the law and operate in full compliance with regulations.
“Operating in accordance with the law is the only way to establish a local presence and achieve sustainable development,” he said.
Meanwhile, President of the Chinese Mining Enterprises Association in Zambia, Wang Jingjun reaffirmed the firms’ commitment to tax compliance and responsible investment.
Mr. Wang noted that Chinese firms have invested heavily in Zambia and remain committed to long-term partnership. “For CMEAZ members, Zambia is more than just an investment destination. It is a strategic partner and a home. We will grow together,” he said.
He also welcomed recent government reforms, particularly measures allowing certain mining taxes to be settled in the Chinese Yuan.
Mr. Wang said this measure would help companies better manage financial risks. “These forward-thinking measures provide greater stability for our financial planning, helps mitigate exposure to exchange rate fluctuations, and enables our companies to allocate more resources towards strengthening tax compliance and risk management systems,” Mr. Wanga added.
“It reflects a pragmatic and supportive policy approach by the Zambian authorities, and we highly commend this initiative as a meaningful step toward fostering a more reliable and enabling environment for responsible and long-term investment.”
