Zambia has signed a landmark agreement worth $1.1 billion to establish a modern crude oil refinery and integrated energy complex in Ndola, marking a major step in the country’s push for industrialisation and energy independence. The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), Fujian Xiang Xin Corporation (FJXX), and the Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) finalized the deal during the Invest Zambia International Conference in Lusaka.
Meeting Domestic Needs and Boosting Exports
The planned facility will process 60,000 barrels of crude oil per day, meeting Zambia’s fuel demands and enabling exports. The developers will begin construction in the third quarter of 2025 and commence full operations in 2026.
The project will include:
*A 130MW power plant
*Production infrastructure for bitumen, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and lubricants
Economic Transformation
Once operational, the refinery complex will stimulate growth across a range of industries. According to IDC CEO Cornwell Muleya, the petrochemical sector will act as a catalyst for broader economic development. “With this landmark project, we are writing a new chapter in Zambia’s industrialisation journey — aligned with the government’s vision of cost-effective energy independence for both industry and citizens,” Muleya said. “This agreement turns aspiration into action.”
A Model of Strategic Partnerships and Investment
ZDA Director-General Albert Halwampa emphasized, “The MOU we signed today embodies the spirit of Invest Zambia 2025 — bold partnerships, catalytic capital, and jobs for our people. It reaffirms that Zambia is open for high-impact, future-ready investments.”
In addition to energy supply, the project is expected to:
*Attract investment in new storage infrastructure
*Support rail network upgrades
*Supply feedstock to industries such as plastics, fertilisers, synthetic materials, and asphalt manufacturing
SMEs Poised to Benefit
As reported by africanews.com, the ripple effects of the project will extend to small and medium enterprises (SMEs), creating opportunities in haulage, catering, maintenance, and professional services. Project promoters emphasized the importance of involving local businesses to ensure inclusive growth.
Chinese Partner Brings Global Expertise
Huang Tieming, Chairperson and President of FJXX, highlighted, “FJXX is honoured to bring two decades of EPC expertise and world-class engineering to this transformative project in partnership with the Government of Zambia. This project will unlock opportunities far beyond Ndola — driving inclusive growth and regional impact.”
