By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo have reopened their border after resolving a trade dispute that led to its closure.
The issue arose when Zambia responded to Congo’s ban on importing Zambian soft drinks and beer, sparking protests among Congolese truckers and concerns from Zambian businesses. The Zambian Association of Manufacturers warned that the ban “could set a dangerous precedent for future trade relations.”
After discussions in Lubumbashi, Zambia’s Commerce Minister Chipoka Mulenga and Congolese officials agreed to reopen the border. “The Zambian party informed the Congolese party that the border will be reopened, to allow the free movement of people and goods,” stated both countries’ commerce ministers in a joint declaration.
