Zambia and Congo Engage in Trade Dispute Talks Following Border Closure

LUSAKA, Zambia (AP) — Zambia's Commerce Minister Chipoka Mulenga traveled to Lubumbashi, Congo, on Monday to address a trade dispute that has escalated tensions between the two nations. The conflict arose after Congo imposed a ban on the import of Zambian soft drinks and beer, prompting Zambia to close its border in response. This decision has sparked protests from Congolese truckers near the border town of Kasumbalesa, highlighting the immediate impact of the trade restrictions. The Zambian Association of Manufacturers has voiced strong opposition to Congo's ban, warning that it could set a troubling precedent for future trade relations. The closure of the border poses significant risks to Congo's mineral exports, as the landlocked country relies heavily on Zambia for transporting its valuable resources, including gold, copper, and cobalt, to international markets. Cobalt, in particular, is crucial for the production of batteries used in electric vehicles and electronic devices. Congo's trade ministry expressed concern over Zambia's abrupt border closure, noting that it had not received any formal complaint prior to the action. The ministry remains hopeful that the discussions in Lubumbashi will lead to a sustainable resolution to the ongoing trade issues. Both countries are keen to restore normalcy in their trade relations, which are vital for their respective economies.