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By the Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry |
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Zambia's New Deal Government has over the past five years made great strides in developing a robust economy as well as articulating a clear and long-term economic vision.
Economic growth has taken place against a backdrop of sound fiscal policies and good governance, which have boosted international confidence in Zambia and seen increased foreign direct investment, not only in the lucrative mining industry but in areas such as transport, telecommunications and utilities. These successes have had a positive effect on both job creation and wealth, while significantly reducing poverty levels. Furthermore, as announced in the 2008 budget, developments in the mining sector's fiscal and regulatory regime will see government laying a firm foundation for the people of Zambia to benefit more meaningfully from the exploitation of their natural resources.
Our foremost challenge, this year and in the mediumterm, is to create the fiscal space that will allow us to marshal both human and financial resources and thereby accelerate the implementation of the Fifth National Development Plan. In the longer term, the overarching theme as articulated in the nation's Vision 2030 document is for Zambia to become a prosperous middle income country by the year 2030. This goal is to be realised by providing interactive ways of fostering economic growth, development and wealth creation, by creating a nation of dynamic, self confident and vibrant entrepreneurs.
With notable milestones already achieved on its way to becoming a strong and prosperous nation, Zambia continues to offer exceptional potential for growth in a variety of sectors.
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Foreword