By John Chola
The Zambian government has suspended the 15 percent export duty on precious stones and metals, following a public plea from the mining sector, including Grizzly Mining Group, Gemfields Group and the Emerald and Semi-Precious Stones Mining Association of Zambia (ESMAZ).
Secretary to the Treasury, Felix Nkulukusa, announced the decision Tuesday, emphasizing the government’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment.
The move follows a latest appeal from Grizzly Mining Group Chairman Abdoul Ba on Tuesday, who called on the state through the media to expedite scrapping the tax, arguing that it was stifling the sector’s growth.
The industry leaders warned that the tax, which came into effect on 1 January 2025, could cripple the sector, particularly Zambian-owned enterprises, and undermine the country’s position as a global leader in emerald production.
The reintroduction of the tax, enacted through Statutory Instrument No. 88 of 2024, had sparked widespread outcry from emerald mining companies, who argued that the move was implemented without prior consultation or notice.
The Customs and Excise (Precious Stones) (Export Duty) (Suspension) (Revocation) Order, 2024, had placed an additional burden on an industry already grappling with a complex and heavy tax regime.
Nkulukusa stated that the government had engaged stakeholders and recognized that the tax was counterproductive, potentially pushing traders to informal markets and reducing Zambia’s competitiveness in the global gemstone trade.
“This suspension is a direct response to industry concerns and aligns with our broader economic strategy to boost investment and job creation in the mining sector,” said Nkulukusa.
