A China-Zambia joint textile venture has begun test operations at the Mulungushi Textiles plant in central Zambia, marking a key step toward the facility’s official reopening later this year, government officials said on Thursday.
Everness Nankala, principal public relations officer at Zambia’s Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry, said the ministry plans to invite members of the public to observe full test runs before the plant is commissioned.
“The revival of the textile firm represents a major step in Zambia’s industrial development and underscores the importance of industrialization in driving economic growth,” Nankala said in a statement.
She said the project demonstrates the government’s commitment to promoting industrial growth and creating employment opportunities for Zambians. Once fully operational, Mulungushi Textiles is expected to contribute significantly to the country’s economy, reduce reliance on imports, and promote inclusive development.
The plant has undergone a $140 million rehabilitation, during which new machinery and equipment have been installed, Nankala said. The upgrade is expected to create more than 500 direct jobs and strengthen cotton out-grower systems in surrounding communities.
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Located in the town of Kabwe, Mulungushi Textiles was originally built in 1978 and was once one of Zambia’s largest textile producers before ceasing operations in 2007. Its closure left a gap in domestic production and forced the country to rely heavily on imported textiles.
The decision to redevelop the factory follows a strategic agreement reached during Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema’s state visit to China in September 2023. At the time, the two governments signed a joint statement establishing a comprehensive cooperative partnership, including support for industrial projects such as Mulungushi Textiles.
Officials said the reopening is expected to strengthen Zambia’s manufacturing base and bolster the domestic supply of cotton and textiles. The plant will source raw cotton from local farmers under out-grower schemes, helping to support smallholder livelihoods and promote inclusive economic growth.
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Nankala said the project aligns with the government’s broader industrialization agenda, which aims to diversify Zambia’s economy, reduce dependence on copper exports, and expand the manufacturing sector.
“The Mulungushi revival is part of a larger effort to modernize Zambia’s industrial sector and create sustainable employment opportunities for Zambians, while enhancing domestic value addition in key sectors,” she said.
Observers say the plant’s reopening could also attract further foreign investment in Zambia’s textile and manufacturing sectors, as the government seeks to improve infrastructure, provide incentives, and strengthen public-private partnerships.
The project’s completion will be closely watched by regional stakeholders, as Zambia aims to position itself as a hub for textile production in southern Africa. Officials hope the plant will contribute to reducing trade deficits in clothing and related products while providing skills and technology transfer to the local workforce.
Test operations are expected to continue over the coming months, with full commercial production anticipated later in 2026, according to the ministry.
The rehabilitation of Mulungushi Textiles reflects Zambia’s commitment to reviving legacy industrial assets and leveraging international partnerships to drive economic development, create jobs, and foster regional competitiveness in manufacturing.
