The New Heritage Party (NHP) has voiced strong concerns over what it describes as the UPND-led government’s bias against Zambian-owned businesses. Party spokesperson Aggephrey Brill accused the administration of prioritizing foreign-owned enterprises through tax breaks and incentives while subjecting local entrepreneurs to stringent taxation and unfavorable economic conditions. The accusations highlight growing concerns about the challenges faced by local businesses in competing fairly in the current economic landscape.
Mr. Brill claimed that the government’s actions have created an uneven playing field, leaving Zambian businesses struggling to compete. He argued that foreign companies receive significant tax holidays and incentives, enabling them to thrive, while local businesses face high tax rates, multiple levies, and strict compliance requirements. According to him, this disparity not only disadvantages local entrepreneurs but also undermines the potential for sustainable economic development driven by Zambian-owned enterprises.
The spokesperson further alleged that state institutions are being misused to suppress local businesses and silence dissent. He pointed to the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA), police, and local councils as examples of government agencies used to impose excessive financial and regulatory burdens on Zambian citizens. Additionally, he cited laws such as the Public Order Act and the Cybercrime Act, claiming they are deployed to intimidate citizens and restrict their ability to voice concerns.
“State institutions and legal frameworks are being weaponized to discourage Zambian entrepreneurs and stifle economic freedom. The government is creating an environment where only a few benefit while the majority struggle to keep their businesses afloat,” Mr. Brill remarked.
The NHP highlighted specific challenges faced by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the country. Local business owners are required to pay full royalties, duties, and taxes without receiving the kinds of relief granted to foreign entities. Market traders, mobile money operators, and small-scale entrepreneurs bear the brunt of these policies, dealing with a host of daily fees, including those for market stands, garbage collection, and toilet access. Mr. Brill described these charges as punitive, arguing they erode the already narrow profit margins of small businesses.
He also expressed concern about the impact on ordinary citizens, particularly those working in informal sectors. According to him, the numerous levies and taxes discourage entrepreneurship and hinder job creation. “Instead of empowering Zambians to build their own economic success stories, the government’s policies are effectively suppressing innovation and self-reliance,” Mr. Brill said.
The NHP has called on the government to revisit its policies and adopt a more inclusive approach that prioritizes the growth and success of Zambian-owned businesses. Mr. Brill argued that supporting local enterprises is key to achieving long-term economic resilience and reducing unemployment. He urged the government to introduce targeted incentives for Zambian businesses, including tax relief and simplified compliance processes.
The government has yet to respond to the allegations raised by the NHP. Officials in previous statements have defended their policies as essential for attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) and boosting economic activity. They maintain that foreign investors bring in capital and expertise that can stimulate growth in key sectors. However, the NHP insists that such measures should not come at the expense of local businesses.
Observers note that empowering Zambian-owned businesses is not only vital for economic justice but also a strategic move toward building a self-reliant and prosperous nation. For now, attention remains on whether the government will address these concerns and implement policies that foster an equitable and thriving business environment.
Mubanga Chitoshi
See what our own have done to Zambia Airways,Zesco and other state assets brought to ruin by corrupt and thieving locals?
Great points with a lot of insight and facts. We need such opposition to talk on issues that affect Zambians. Yes, we Need Foreign Direct Investment but not on terms that disadvantage Zambians. Also, the issue of land that UPND are just giving away to Foreigners. It should stop.
Always playing a victim’s card and waking up now about the cyber security law that has been in place since the PF (their alliance partner!) enacted it. As for business incentives, why not work with your MPs to advance this cause in Parley?
Exactly…be Proactive and make counter proposals on how Zambians can be involved. And find out what bottleneck deter Zambians.
Abena Zambia…tantameni wont get you anywhere. Learn and live up to expectations instead of using profits to marry 7 wives and buy 20 cars.
We as Zambians failed to run Government owned companies. Zambia was born with 36 companies though all of them were owned by whites. Ba opposition what happened to these companies. These are things you should be diving in before criticizing Government over her way of doing certain things otherwise you are blind opposition. Just support Government in want they are doing and it will be better for you in the long run. For now is to whore more business to revamp the economy of our country.
It seems we will never admit our failings,
More importantly when will we see a credible opposition party come into being
instead of listening to has beens
2026 is not that far off
What this woman is asking for is that the government should give free handouts and compromise on quality.
Zambian businesses have never had a better time to start and flourish.
The government is giving opportunities, but the opportunities are not being utilities.
The thing with Zambians is that they expect to be spoon feed whilst others will come and they will see the opportunities while Zambians stay sitting on their hands.
Zambians have to realise that things don’t just happen you have to make them happen.
So Mr Sikota SC, has double membership with New Heritage party – fishing around.
“….Market traders, mobile money operators, and small-scale entrepreneurs bear the brunt of these policies, dealing with a host of daily fees, including those for market stands, garbage collection, and toilet access. Mr. Brill described these charges as punitive, arguing they erode the already narrow profit margins of small businesses……”
As someone said , they mean free handouts……
Forwardee 2031
Oh please…here we go again with the same old same….whining and groaning. Spaka Zambians will never grow if we find every manmer of excuse for not going “ku ma bala”.
Get over yourselves. This is why foriegners are getting the opportunities cause you are so hell bent on focusing on the same little ntembas. Neither do you have the discipline to be enterprenures.
Our Zambian businesses are failing because they do not trust each other and it is a sham that since 1991 they still do not understand how to run businesses. Then they will never learn. Real Zambian business men are yet to come.
@Sparka read the article. Read the comments.