Zambia launches simplified registration system to empower SMEs, strengthen formalization

Five Zambian government institutions have reportedly signed an agreement to jointly manage a Simplified Registration System aimed at empowering Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), fostering inter-agency collaboration, and streamlining registration processes for informal businesses.

The partnership included the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry; the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprises; the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development; Smart Zambia Institute; and the Patents and Company Registration Agency (PACRA).

The agreement was signed on Tuesday in Lusaka at the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry, with Permanent Secretary, Lillian Bwalya, witnessing the event.

The new registration system is designed to integrate informal businesses into the formal economy by collecting essential data on trade performance and employment in the sector.

Bwalya noted that this initiative would pave the way for SMEs to access broader business opportunities within both public and private sectors.

Under the agreement, the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry would work alongside the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprises Development to analyse data and support SMEs through statutory bodies.

Local authorities, coordinated by the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, would focus on data collection in targeted markets, gathering critical statistics on trade activity and employment in informal sectors.

Bwalya highlighted the role of “market masters” in assisting with data mobilisation at the local level.

“Local authorities will be key in mobilising market masters who shall play a coordinating role,” she stated.

Smart Zambia Institute was tasked with overseeing the digital administration of the system, ensuring efficient functionality and data integration across online platforms.

Meanwhile, PACRA would host the system servers and aid in the formal registration of informal traders under business names or formal companies.

Bwalya stated that the streamlined system was a critical tool for Zambia’s economic growth, addressing barriers that have long hindered SME registration.

“SMEs are the backbone of our economic landscape; however, many entrepreneurs face challenges with the registration process that can slow growth and progress,” she said.

The partnership aims to create a more inclusive economy by simplifying access, improving transparency, and leveraging digital tools to facilitate smoother business formalization, especially in underserved areas.

“Together, we are not only opening doors for more entrepreneurs to formalize their businesses but also laying a foundation for sustainable economic growth across Zambia,” Bwalya added.

He affirmed the collective commitment of the five institutions.

The Simplified Registration System marks a significant step towards empowering SMEs, expanding formal economic participation, and fostering a vibrant, diverse economy where businesses of all sizes can thrive.

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