Welcome to the inaugural issue of CFO Insight Brief, brought to you by Lira Business Solutions.
I’m Lilian Njovu, a CFO and business advisor passionate about helping business
owners navigate Zambia’s evolving financial landscape with clarity and confidence.
Each month, I’ll share practical insights to help you interpret policy changes, strengthen your financial
systems, and make informed business decisions.
Let’s look at the highlights from the 2026 National Budget presented on 25th September 2025 —
and what they mean for your business.
1. Relief for Small Businesses
The Turnover Tax and Rental Income Tax exemption threshold has increased from
K1,000 to K2,500 per month, easing the tax burden on small enterprises and
encouraging compliance.
2. Incentives for Local Value Addition
A 2% local content allowance now applies to milk, hides, and skins, while new
Customs Duty adjustments encourage local processing and manufacturing.
3. Digital Economy Impacts
The Mobile Money Levy has doubled across all transaction bands, increasing digital
payment costs. Businesses should reassess transaction structures and aggregator fees.
4. VAT and Customs Updates
Mains water and loan-funded government projects are now zero-rated for VAT,
while new Customs Duty adjustments support domestic production and import
substitution.
???? CFO Perspective
This budget emphasises compliance, industrialization, and sustainability.
As a CFO, I encourage every business to:
- Review their tax position early and model the cost impact of new measures.
- Prioritize efficiency in operations to offset higher digital transaction costs.
- Position strategically for incentives in agriculture, manufacturing, and
- renewable energy.
Action Steps for SMEs
- Review your cost and pricing structure under the new fiscal measures.
- Ensure compliance with ZRA, NAPSA, and PACRA before year-end.
- Explore local value addition or import substitution opportunities.
- Schedule a financial strategy review for 2026.
Need Help Making Sense of It All?
At Lira Business Solutions, we help businesses like yours translate policy
changes into practical financial strategies.
Whether you need support with:
- ???? Financial planning and budgeting
- ???? Tax compliance and optimization
- ???? Strategic advisory services
- ???? Business performance analysis
We’re here to guide you.
???? Book a consultation through our website www.lirabusinesssolutions.com .
Let’s ensure your business enters 2026 financially prepared, compliant, and
growth-focused.
Warm regards,
Lilian Njovu
Fractional CFO | Business Advisor | Co-founder, Lira Business Solutions
