18th September 2026
Transparency International Zambia (TI-Z) has noted with concern the statement issued by the Chinese Embassy in Zambia on its Facebook page in response to TI-Z’s publication of the study report titled “Zambia’s 3 million Metric Tonnes of Copper Target: Mitigating Governance Risks Associated with Chinese Mining.” It is our considered view that the Embassy did not take the time to read the entire report, as it would have been clear that the publication neither downplays nor denigrates the role of Chinese mining enterprises in Zambia and that it followed a comprehensive research process.
The TI-Z study found that four large-scale Chinese-owned mining companies collectively accounted for approximately 25% of government revenue in 2024, and that over 44% of the investment commitments in the mining sector between 2024 and 2031 are associated with Chinese entities. Furthermore, in recognising China’s industrial dominance in global mining, the study noted that China imported about 60% of global copper ore and produced more than 45% of the world’s refined copper in 2025. Therefore, it is surprising that the Chinese Embassy in Zambia accused TI-Z of downplaying the positive role of Chinese mining enterprises in Zambia.
The Embassy also expressed what they termed “strong indignation” and accused the study of publishing biased and misleading remarks, exaggerating isolated negative issues, and groundless accusations. TI-Z would therefore like to correct this narrative, as the study was conducted using scientific methods and presents findings supported by strong evidence. The study was finalised following comprehensive desk-based research, an expert roundtable meeting in Lusaka, 2 focus group discussions on the Copperbelt, and several key informant interviews with Local Authorities in mining districts, the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development, law enforcement agencies, other public institutions, and one Chinese mining company. Notably, TI-Z visited several other Chinese entities and invited them to participate in the study, but the vast majority declined.
It should therefore be clear from the above that the study identifies well-founded and evidence-based governance risks associated with Chinese mining in Zambia. These include corruption and the fronting of citizens in land acquisition; political interference and regulatory capture; threats and bribery during inspections and monitoring; and information suppression and influence over media narratives. Instead of discrediting the study, we call upon the Chinese Embassy, Chinese mining companies, and other Chinese entities to implement measures to mitigate these risks. This will protect the reputation of Chinese mining investments, promote effective enforcement of environmental laws, and reduce pollution incidents. TI-Z also calls upon the Zambian Government to integrate environmental and sustainability measures in the National Three (3) Million Tonnes Copper Production Strategy (NTMTS); review the Anti-Corruption Act No. 3 of 2012, to ensure broader coverage of public officials; and enact a comprehensive law to mandate the effective declaration of interest and periodic declaration of assets and liabilities for all senior public officials.
Raymond Mutale,
Acting EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
For more details, get in touch with the TI-Z Communications Officer, Ms. Zanji Valerie Sinkala on zsinkala@tizambia.org.zm
