Zambia-China Legal Partnership

LIAC and CABC establish dedicated platform for China-Africa trade. Agreement signals commitment to efficient and impartial mediation

By Francis Maingaila

Lusaka, Zambia – (17 October 2025) - The Lusaka International Arbitration Centre (LIAC) and the China-Africa Business Council (CABC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish the Zambia Branch of the China-Afri8)ca International Commercial Mediation Centre, creating a dedicated platform to handle commercial disputes arising from Chinese investments and business activities across Africa.

The signing ceremony, held in Lusaka today, marks a major step in strengthening Zambia’s legal and commercial infrastructure and reflects the maturity of China-Africa trade relations.

Dr. Chabuka Kawesha, Chairperson of LIAC, described the MoU as a strategic partnership that will reshape the commercial and legal landscape in Zambia and across Africa.

 “We gather not merely to sign a document, but to lay the cornerstone of a partnership that promises to significantly enhance commercial and legal cooperation,” he said.

Dr. Kawesha highlighted Zambia’s strategic location, political stability, and central role in Africa-China trade as key reasons for hosting the centre. He emphasized the importance of impartial and efficient dispute resolution as cross-border investment grows.

“Where there is great commerce, there is potential for disputes. Mediation provides a collaborative, cost-effective, and relationship-preserving solution, allowing parties to reach mutually acceptable outcomes while respecting cultural and legal nuances,” he added.

He said the centre would integrate expertise in both Chinese and African commercial law and culture, ensuring legally sound and culturally appropriate outcomes. 

LIAC is committed to state-of-the-art facilities, secure technology, and professional mediator training to ensure the centre becomes operational swiftly.

Mrs. Hao Ajun, Vice President of CABC, welcomed the MoU as a platform to enhance investor confidence and strengthen Zambia’s role in China-Africa economic cooperation.

 “Our cooperation is expanding beyond mining and infrastructure into agriculture, manufacturing, logistics, and the digital economy. This centre provides a professional and credible mechanism for dispute resolution,” she said.

Mrs. Hao revealed that bilateral trade between China and Zambia reached approximately US$6.7 billion in 2022, with Chinese investments generating over US$1.75 billion in economic activity and creating thousands of local jobs. 

She emphasized that the centre will draw on internationally accredited mediators with expertise in cross-cultural commercial law.

 “This MoU is not an endpoint but a new beginning. Together, we can strengthen legal certainty, promote sustainable investment, and write a new chapter in China-Africa cooperation,” she said.

Mr. Lungusani Zulu, President of the Law Association of Zambia (LAZ), delivering the vote of thanks, said the centre would provide a fast, fair, and affordable mechanism for resolving commercial disputes while preserving business relationships.

 “Many Chinese investors and Zambian businesses have faced challenges resolving disputes across jurisdictions. This centre will make Zambia the go-to destination for transparent and efficient dispute resolution,” he said.

Mr. Zulu added that Zambian mediators and legal professionals will benefit from training in international commercial mediation, ensuring disputes are resolved efficiently and in a culturally sensitive manner.

LIAC said the centre will reduce transaction costs, accelerate dispute resolution, and encourage foreign direct investment, serving as a trusted neutral platform for Chinese and African enterprises engaged in cross-border business.

The Lusaka International Arbitration Centre provides comprehensive arbitration and mediation services across Africa, while the China-Africa Business Council promotes bilateral trade, investment, and economic cooperation. 

Both institutions said the new centre underscores a shared commitment to trust, efficiency, and sustainable commercial partnerships.

 “Today’s signing reflects the maturity of the China-Africa partnership. It is not just about resolving disputes—it is about building trust and confidence, encouraging sustainable investment flows, and fostering deeper economic cooperation,” Dr. Kawesha said.