New $110-million non-alcoholic beverages plant commissioned in Zambia

The state-of-the-art plant located in the Multi-Facility Economic Zone is expected to increase the country’s export capacity for non-alcoholic beverages across the region. 

According to Trendtype, the emerging markets consultancy, it will initially manufacture carbonated drinks, bottled water and energy beverages, with plans to add fruit juices and health-based drinks. 

Trade Kings Group, a wholly Zambian owned company, is behind the new plant. Among other things, it manufactures sweet brands such as Super Sweets, Amazon Chews, Soccer Chews and Amazon Monsta Pops.  

Speaking at the plant commissioning ceremony, President Hichilema said the investment demonstrates that local and international investors have renewed faith in Zambia’s stability and business climate.  

Private sector responds with confidence 

“This project shows that when we fix the fundamentals of the economy, the private sector responds with confidence,” he told the gathering. 

“We have shown consistency in managing public resources, and this is the outcome – companies are expanding, jobs are being created and our economy is growing.” 

Also speaking at the ceremony was Trade Kings Group Chairperson, Afzal Motiwala, who said the long-term strategy is to increase local manufacturing capacity and reduce reliance on imported beverages. 

“This investment is a reaffirmation of our belief in Zambia’s potential and our confidence in its leadership,” he stated. “The facility will serve both domestic consumers and regional export markets, boosting Zambia’s competitiveness in the SADC region.” 

President Hichilema called on other potential investors to follow the Trade Kings example. “This is the time to invest in Zambia. The private sector is the engine of growth, and our role as government is to create an enabling environment,” he said.