Zambia exports soybeans to China for the first time

Zambia shipped its first 120-ton consignment of soybeans to China on October 10, launching exports under a trade agreement signed between the two countries in 2024. Access to the Chinese market opens up new opportunities for Zambian farmers and agricultural exporters, according to Ecofin Agency.

The first shipment was produced by CAMCO Demonstration Farms Ltd. in Serenje, Zambia’s Central Province. According to the Chinese Embassy, this marks the first confirmed shipment of Zambian soybeans to the Chinese market following the completion of the necessary regulatory approvals.

The two countries signed a phytosanitary protocol establishing requirements for soybean exports on September 5, 2024, during Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema’s visit to Beijing. In April 2025, Chinese customs added Zambia to its list of countries authorized to export soybeans to China.

In May 2026, officials from both countries continued discussions on commercial shipments, including soybean varieties and quality standards required by Chinese importers. The October shipment represents the first tangible result of these negotiations.

According to World Bank data, Zambia exported approximately 13.7 thsd tons of soybeans in 2024, mainly to Zimbabwe. Meanwhile, China imported around 111.83 mln tons of soybeans in 2025. Access to the Chinese market therefore offers Zambia significant potential to expand its soybean exports, although current shipment volumes remain relatively small.

Tags: China, soybean, Zambia