Zambia has taken a major step towards expanding its industrial and pharmaceutical sectors after the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) signed a joint venture agreement with China’s Jijia International Medical Technology Company to establish ZAMVAX Limited, a vaccine manufacturing venture.

The overall project is valued at approximately US$213 million, with the first phase requiring an estimated US$24.13 million. The initial facility will be developed in the Lusaka South Multi-Facility Economic Zone and is designed to produce up to 20 million oral cholera vaccine doses annually.

Under the agreement, the IDC will hold a 60% stake, while Jijia will own the remaining 40%. The first phase will focus on filling, finishing, packaging and quality control using imported bulk vaccine ingredients. A later phase is expected to introduce local antigen production and more complete manufacturing.

The project could create opportunities for skilled Zambian workers, local suppliers and technology transfer. It also has the potential to support exports, subject to regulatory approvals and access to international markets.

The investment marks an important opportunity for Zambia to develop local pharmaceutical production, strengthen its manufacturing base and build a larger role in the regional healthcare supply chain.

The partners are expected to proceed with financing, site preparation, technical arrangements and workforce development as the project moves towards implementation.