The Zambian Government has announced that it will be providing incentives to the country’s metal and steel industries in an attempt to protect both industries from foreign competition.

Measures have included the banning of scrap metal exports in an effort to create reserves of raw materials for manufacturers and preferential government procurement to local pharmaceutical manufacturers.

Commerce Minister Felix Mutati announced the measures at the 47th Zambia International Trade Fair, commenting “This situation is resulting in jobs being exported to countries where these products are imported from and mining companies are importing products that are locally available and this is injuring local industry especially that studies have shown that local products generally meet the required standards.”

According to Steel Guru, exports of scrap metal will not be allowed and government has imposed a 25% duty on importation of grinding mills balls and another 25% import duty on rolling stocks spares for underground mines. Other measures include a 25% import duty on the railway turn outs, switch blades, crossing frogs, point rods, bolts and nuts, among others.