Chikwanda

The Zambian government has suspended the 15% export duty on gemstones and precious metals but retains key taxes to sustain revenue. A 6% mineral royalty tax, higher than Brazil’s 2% and Colombia’s 2.5%, and a 30% corporate income tax remain in effect.

Finance Minister Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane emphasized Zambia’s role as a top global gemstone exporter. The 15% export duty, introduced in 2019 to encourage local value addition, was suspended in 2020 and remains lifted to maintain industry competitiveness.

The Zambian government has announced the suspension of export duty on precious stones and metals, a move aimed at stimulating the mining sector and increasing international trade competitiveness. This development follows the issuance of Statutory Instrument No. 4 of 2025, titled The Customs and Excise (Precious Stones and Metals) (Export Duty) (Suspension) Order, 2025.