At independence in 1964, Zambia was a middle-income country but consequently reverted to low-income status. Economic mismanagement by Zambia’s one-party state turned the country into one of Africa’s poorest. Since 1999, however, Zambia’s economy has shown positive growth, averaging 5 per cent per year, mainly attributed to increased agricultural production, new investments and increased exports from the mining sector, increased performance of the manufacturing sector (especially agro-processing) and growth in tourism.

The IGC has held initial talks with the Government of Zambia. A work programme is emerging, with a focus on Zambia's mineral taxation system, and a book on economic policy to be produced jointly with the central bank.