US-Zambia Trade Finance: The US EXIM Bank has reopened short-term commercial credit and insurance support for Zambia’s private sector, following an update to its country limits, while AGOA access is extended through 2028—an expected boost for firms importing US equipment and technology. Copper & Smelting Pressure: Global copper mine output fell in the first half of 2026 as smelter treatment charges collapsed toward zero, squeezing both miners and processors and raising supply-chain mismatch concerns. Electricity Supply Push: Zambia’s installed generation capacity rose from about 3,100MW (2021) to 4,576MW (2026), with solar growth a key diversification move as the country targets more capacity by end-2026. Horticulture Export Drive: Government officials toured flower and blueberry production, pointing to higher horticulture exports and jobs, while flagging challenges like taxation and labour casualisation. Business Leadership: Champion Breweries appointed Malolan Sampath as Managing Director/CEO effective 1 September 2026, signalling leadership continuity for the beverage sector. Financial Integrity: Zambia’s FATF/ESAAMLG progress was highlighted as a milestone in tackling money laundering and related crimes. Food Value Chain Infra: The Zambia Fruits and Vegetables Association urged investment in cold-room facilities to cut post-harvest losses and meet export standards. Politics in Courts: Zambia’s post-election disputes continue in court, with 67 parliamentary petitions filed after the presidential challenge window closed.