India and Zambia have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to enhance trade alliances between cooperatives of both countries. The agreement was announced by Union Home Minister and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah in the Lok Sabha on 12 August 2025. This move is part of India’s strategy to expand its cooperative export network through international collaborations.
Details of the India–Zambia Agreement
- Promotion of cooperatives: Focusing on fostering cooperative relationships between the two nations.
- Facilitating trade alliances: Providing support for cooperative entities to engage in trade partnerships.
- Enhancing market access: Opening up avenues for Indian cooperative products in the Zambian market.
Role of National Cooperative Exports Ltd (NCEL)
NCEL, a specialized export body, is dedicated to facilitating the entry of cooperative sector products into global markets. As part of this endeavor, NCEL has signed MoUs with Sinton Vantage Trading in Senegal and PT Sinton Surini Nusantara in Indonesia to diversify export destinations and foster beneficial trade relationships.
Strategic Significance
For India
- Expand export footprint: Opening up new markets for cooperative sector goods.
- Strengthen South–South trade: Enhancing trade relations with other developing nations.
- Support Aatmanirbhar Bharat: Boosting rural and agricultural export earnings in alignment with the self-reliant India initiative.
For Zambia
- Access to Indian expertise: Leveraging Indian cooperative knowledge in agriculture, processing, and value addition.
- Opportunities for joint ventures: Exploring cooperative industry collaborations.
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams
- India and Zambia have signed an MoU to strengthen trade alliances between cooperatives.
- NCEL has secured deals in Senegal and Indonesia to expand export opportunities.
- The agreement aims to promote cooperative trade partnerships and enhance market access for Indian products in Zambia.
- This initiative supports India’s goal of boosting rural and agricultural export earnings and fostering South–South trade relations.
