Market
Milk powder in Zambia is an import-dependent dairy ingredient market, supplying both industrial users and retail demand for shelf-stable dairy products. UN Comtrade data via World Bank WITS shows Zambia imported US$13.31 million of HS 040221 (milk/cream powder, >1.5% fat, unsweetened) in 2023, with South Africa supplying US$9.42 million of that value. For HS 040210 (milk/cream powder, ≤1.5% fat), South Africa was also the top reported exporter to Zambia in 2023. Zambia simultaneously reports exports of HS 040210/040229/040299 products in 2023 primarily to the Democratic Republic of Congo, indicating a regional distribution/re-export corridor alongside domestic consumption.
Market RoleImport-dependent consumer and manufacturing ingredient market (net importer) with limited regional exports/re-exports
Domestic RoleSupply input for domestic food and beverage manufacturing and shelf-stable dairy consumption; domestic dairy processors focus mainly on liquid milk and value-added dairy
Market GrowthNot Mentioned
Risks
Regulatory Compliance HighMilk powder imports can be delayed, detained, or refused if importer-side permits and health clearance requirements are not secured and matched to shipment documents (e.g., animal-product import permit under the Animal Health Act, and health clearance certificate requirements under the Food Safety Act; plus supporting certificate of analysis and compliant labels).Confirm HS classification and intended end-use before contracting; have the Zambian importer obtain required permits/health clearance in advance; run a pre-shipment document and label check (including country of origin declaration) against the Zambia Trade Information Portal procedure requirements.
Tariff MediumApplied customs duty can be materially high depending on the specific tariff line used (e.g., the January 2026 tariff schedule lists 40% duty for HS 040210.90 "other"), creating landed-cost volatility and potential demand disruption if classification/end-use is not optimized or if policy shifts tighten protection for local dairy.Obtain an advance tariff classification/ruling where possible and contract with clear responsibility for duty/tax treatment; validate whether the product qualifies for any specific tariff lines (e.g., infant preparations) and ensure documentary evidence supports the classification.
Logistics MediumAs a landlocked market, Zambia is exposed to inland transport and border-friction risks that can increase lead times and delivered cost for bulk powders; moisture damage risk increases when cargo experiences delays in humid environments or poor warehousing.Use moisture-barrier packaging and desiccants where appropriate; specify container stuffing/liner requirements; build buffer stock for longer lead times and route disruptions; qualify warehouses for dry storage and pest control.
FAQ
What are the key permits and compliance documents to import milk powder into Zambia?Zambia Trade Information Portal references (1) an import permit requirement for animals and animal products under the Animal Health Act, administered by the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock (Department of Veterinary Services), and (2) an Import Health Clearance Permit / health clearance certificate requirement under the Food Safety Act administered by the Ministry of Health. The Import Health Clearance Permit procedure also lists a certificate of analysis among required documents, and Zambia’s food labelling rules (Food and Drugs Regulations) require items such as product name, net contents, and country of origin declaration.
Who are the main suppliers of milk powder to Zambia in recent trade data?UN Comtrade partner data via the World Bank WITS tool shows South Africa as the leading supplier for Zambia’s 2023 imports of HS 040221 (milk/cream powder, >1.5% fat, unsweetened), and also as the top reported exporter to Zambia for HS 040210 (milk/cream powder, ≤1.5% fat) in 2023. Other suppliers for HS 040221 in 2023 include New Zealand, France, the Netherlands, and Argentina.
Can tariffs be a major cost driver for milk powder imports into Zambia?Yes. Zambia’s National Tariff Book (January 2026) shows that duty treatment varies by tariff line: for example HS 040210.10 ("specially prepared for infants") is listed as duty-free, while HS 040210.90 ("other") is listed at 40% customs duty. Importers should confirm the correct HS classification for their exact product and use-case before shipment.