A new US$1.1 billion refinery in Ndola will reduce Zambia’s fuel imports, generate thousands of jobs, and drive regional growth beginning in 2026.
Zambia has formalized a $1.1 billion agreement with China’s Fujian Xiang Xin Corporation to build a new oil refinery and integrated energy complex in Ndola, Copperbelt Province. The initiative targets a capacity of 60,000 barrels per day, aiming to satisfy all of Zambia’s current fuel demand while generating surplus for regional export.
Construction is slated to begin in Q3 2025, with the first phase of operations expected in 2026. The project is set to generate roughly 2,200 jobs during construction and provide more than 3,000 direct and indirect roles once fully operational.
A 130 MW cogeneration power plant will accompany the refinery, with up to 100 MW delivered to the national grid, enhancing local energy stability.
The new complex will also support downstream industries through facilities for LPG bottling, bitumen, and lubricant blending, fostering further industrial growth.
The project incorporates comprehensive skills-transfer programs to ensure Zambian workers are equipped to operate the facility to international standards.
Environmental and social impact assessments are underway to ensure regulatory compliance and sustainability.
The combined efforts of Zambia’s Industrial Development Corporation, FJXX, and the Zambia Development Agency are focused on finalizing approvals, engineering, and financing ahead of ground-breaking.
This refinery marks a major step for Zambia's energy independence and industrial development, with benefits set to impact the wider southern African region from 2026.
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