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Glass Cup Manufacturer Zambia

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1 Part 1: Market Size and Growth

2 Part 2: Leading Companies

3 Part 3: Trade Shows and Industry Events

3.1 Canton Fair (China Import and Export Fair)

3.2 Southern Africa Trade & Investment Fair (Johannesburg, South Africa)

4 Part 4: Impact of Global Trade Policies

5 Part 5: Conclusion

Part 1: Market Size and Growth

Zambia’s glassware market is steadily growing, driven by urbanization, tourism, and the expanding hospitality sector in cities like Lusaka, Ndola, and Kitwe. Demand for glass cups, mugs, and tableware is increasing as restaurants, hotels, cafés, and households seek durable and stylish glassware. Most glass cups are imported from China, South Africa, and India, as domestic manufacturing is limited.

Zambian consumers and businesses prefer reusable and durable glass cups suitable for tea, coffee, and cold beverages. Sustainability is becoming an important consideration, with glass gradually replacing disposable plastics. Hotels and restaurants are upgrading their tableware to provide better service, creating opportunities for international glassware manufacturers to supply high-quality products.

Government trade policies and regional agreements, such as Zambia’s membership in the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), facilitate imports. Lower tariffs and streamlined customs procedures enable local distributors to source quality glass cups efficiently and maintain competitive pricing.

Part 2: Leading Companies

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Deli Glass Group

Deli Glass Group, founded in 1996 in China, is a leading global manufacturer of glassware. The company operates over 80 production lines and produces more than one million pieces daily. Its product portfolio includes glass cups, mugs, pitchers, decanters, and decorative glassware. Deli Glass offers OEM and ODM services, enabling customized products for international markets.

Deli Glass combines advanced automation with skilled craftsmanship, ensuring clarity, durability, and consistency. Its glass cups serve restaurants, hotels, and households worldwide. Flexible order sizes and customizable designs make Deli Glass an ideal partner for Zambian importers seeking reliable supply and a diverse range of products.

The company holds ISO and SGS certifications, ensuring international quality and safety standards. Its production capacity and consistent output allow distributors in Zambia to maintain a reliable stock of glassware.

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Libbey Inc.

Libbey Inc., founded in 1818 in the United States, is a globally recognized manufacturer of glassware. Known for durability, functionality, and design, Libbey produces glass cups, tumblers, barware, and tableware for commercial and residential use. Its products are widely used in hotels, restaurants, and households worldwide.

Libbey emphasizes sustainability, long-term durability, and functional design, aligning well with Zambia’s hospitality and retail sectors. The company provides private-label and OEM options for importers seeking branded glassware. High-usage glass cups are ideal for hotels, cafés, and restaurants where durability and presentation are critical.

Libbey holds ISO and NSF certifications, ensuring compliance with international safety and quality standards. Its reliable supply chain allows distributors in Zambia to receive consistent, high-quality products.

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Nadir Figueiredo

Nadir Figueiredo, founded in 1912 in Brazil, is one of Latin America’s largest glassware producers. Exporting to over 120 countries, the company produces glass cups, jars, plates, and decorative items. Its logistics and distribution networks enable efficient delivery to Southern Africa, including Zambia.

Nadir’s glass cups are known for durability, affordability, and elegant design, making them suitable for both household and commercial use. The company offers OEM services for customized products, allowing Zambian importers to provide branded glassware. Regional shipping from Brazil ensures reliable and timely delivery.

The company adheres to ISO standards and employs sustainable production practices, including energy-efficient manufacturing and glass recycling. These practices appeal to importers prioritizing high-quality, safe, and environmentally responsible products.

Company	Founded	Core Products	Industries	Certifications
Deli Glass Group	1996	Glass cups, mugs, pitchers	Hospitality, retail	ISO, SGS
Libbey Inc.	1818	Drinkware, barware, tableware	Hotels, restaurants	ISO, NSF
Nadir Figueiredo	1912	Glass cups, jars, plates	Hospitality, retail	ISO certified

Part 3: Trade Shows and Industry Events

Canton Fair (China Import and Export Fair)

The Canton Fair in Guangzhou, China, is one of the largest trade exhibitions globally, attracting buyers from Southern Africa, including Zambia. The fair showcases thousands of manufacturers specializing in household goods, kitchenware, and glassware. Zambian importers can meet suppliers like Deli Glass Group, evaluate quality, negotiate pricing, and arrange OEM orders.

Held twice a year in April and October, the fair is divided into phases covering different product categories. The household goods section is particularly relevant for glass cup importers. Attending allows buyers to assess product quality, compare designs, and establish long-term supplier relationships.

Southern Africa Trade & Investment Fair (Johannesburg, South Africa)

The Southern Africa Trade & Investment Fair, held annually in Johannesburg, attracts exhibitors and buyers from across Southern Africa. The fair showcases household goods, kitchenware, and consumer products, including glass cups. For Zambian importers, the fair provides regional sourcing opportunities, reducing shipping times and costs while facilitating business networking.

Typically held in July, the fair focuses on consumer goods and household products. Exhibitors include manufacturers from South Africa, Brazil, China, and Europe. Importers from Zambia can negotiate contracts, explore OEM and private-label options, and discover trends in sustainable and innovative glassware for local markets.

Event	Date	Location	Highlights
Canton Fair	April & October	Guangzhou, China	Global sourcing, OEM contracts, product evaluation
Southern Africa Trade & Investment Fair	July	Johannesburg, South Africa	Regional suppliers, networking, eco-friendly products

Part 4: Impact of Global Trade Policies

Zambia’s glassware imports are influenced by regional trade agreements and global market conditions. Membership in COMESA and SADC facilitates preferential tariffs and simplified customs procedures, enabling distributors to source high-quality glass cups efficiently. This supports competitive pricing and reliable product availability for both retail and hospitality sectors.

Global shipping costs, currency fluctuations, and logistics challenges remain significant. Fragile glass products require careful handling and proper packaging. Many importers mitigate risks by sourcing from regional or established international suppliers, balancing quality, timely delivery, and costs.

Sustainability is increasingly influencing sourcing decisions. Glassware produced with recycled materials, energy-efficient processes, and eco-friendly packaging is preferred by importers who want to meet growing consumer demand for environmentally responsible products. This aligns with Zambia’s rising awareness and demand for sustainable household and commercial goods.

Part 5: Conclusion

The glass cup market in Zambia is steadily growing, driven by urbanization, hospitality expansion, and consumer awareness. Importers can partner with established global and regional manufacturers, including Deli Glass, Libbey, and Nadir Figueiredo, to supply durable, high-quality, and visually appealing glassware.

Challenges include shipping costs, fragile logistics, and limited domestic production. By sourcing from regional suppliers and leveraging trade agreements such as COMESA and SADC, distributors can maintain reliable supply and competitive pricing. With strategic partnerships and sustainable sourcing practices, Zambia can develop a stable and thriving glassware market, benefiting households, businesses, and the hospitality industry.