Zambia has struck a deal to build a US$1.1 billion crude‑oil refinery and energy hub in Ndola, a project that will process 60,000 barrels per day—enough to meet the country’s entire fuel needs and create surplus for export, the government announced on Monday.
Under the agreement, state‑owned Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) will partner with China’s Fujian Xiang Xin Corporation to develop the complex in the Copperbelt city. Construction is slated to begin in Q3 2025, with an initial phase of commercial output targeted for 2026.
The refinery will import Middle Eastern crude via Tanzania’s port of Dar es Salaam, an IDC spokesperson told media. Beyond petrol and diesel, the integrated facility will feature LPG bottling, bitumen and lubricant units, plus a 130‑MW power plant.
Once operational, the plant is expected to slash Zambia’s annual fuel‑import bill and position the country as a potential supplier to neighbouring states.