India's view of the world · A factual referenceLast updated 12 May 2026 · Edition 04
COUNTRY RELATIONSHIP · ZAMBIA
India & Zambia
CommonwealthITECLines of CreditMining
India and Zambia established diplomatic relations in 1964, the year of Zambia's independence from Britain, and share Commonwealth membership, a history of Non-Aligned Movement solidarity, and an enduring Indian business community in Lusaka and the Copperbelt. India's development partnership with Zambia has grown through Lines of Credit for infrastructure, ITEC training, and expanding trade in copper, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural goods.
COOPERATION AREAS
Where India and Zambia actually work together
5 active areas of cooperation, as of July 2026. Click any card for the full brief.
TRADE & INVESTMENT
By the numbers
Figures approximate FY2023–24; copper imports from Zambia growing with India's critical minerals demand; pharma exports remain largest goods category
$1.2bn
Total bilateral trade in goods
$0.7bn
India exports to country
$0.5bn
India imports from country
Trade trajectory · USD bn
$1.2bnin 2023 · click a bar to compare years
TOP TRADED ITEMS
AGREEMENTS & MILESTONES
The relationship since 1947, in 9 dates
CURRENT STATE
Where things stand, 2026
India-Zambia relations are on a positive trajectory, driven by growing trade in critical minerals, sustained development cooperation, and an active Indian diaspora. The critical minerals alignment with India's energy transition goals is creating new commercial opportunities and strategic depth in the partnership.
SIGNALS TO WATCH
On track / positive momentum
In progress / worth watching
Stalled or facing headwinds
Not yet started / unclear
QUICK FACTS
CapitalLusaka
Population19 million
RegionAfrica
Diplomatic tiesSince 1964
Indian diaspora~10,000
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