Beer & Alcohol Prices in Zambia
Updated March 2026 ยท 8 beers + 8 spirits
Compare beer and alcohol prices across Zambia โ shop vs bar pricing for Mosi, Castle, Rhino plus spirits, wines, and local brews.
Beer Prices โ Shop vs Bar
| Beer | Shop Price | Bar Price | ABV |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mosi Lager (500ml) National favourite, Zambian Breweries | ZMK 18 โ 22 | ZMK 28 โ 40 | 4% |
| Mosi Premium (330ml) Premium variant | ZMK 15 โ 20 | ZMK 25 โ 35 | 5% |
| Castle Lager (500ml) SABMiller, popular import | ZMK 20 โ 25 | ZMK 30 โ 45 | 5% |
| Rhino Lager (500ml) Budget-friendly local brew | ZMK 15 โ 18 | ZMK 22 โ 32 | 4.5% |
| Eagle Lager (500ml) Economy option | ZMK 12 โ 15 | ZMK 18 โ 28 | 4% |
| Heineken (330ml) Premium import | ZMK 25 โ 35 | ZMK 40 โ 60 | 5% |
| Windhoek Lager (330ml) Namibian import | ZMK 22 โ 30 | ZMK 35 โ 50 | 4% |
| Chibuku Shake Shake (1L) Traditional opaque beer | ZMK 8 โ 12 | ZMK 10 โ 15 | 3.5% |
Spirits & Wine Prices
Jameson Irish Whiskey (750ml)
ZMK 280 โ 380
Johnnie Walker Red (750ml)
ZMK 250 โ 350
Captain Morgan Rum (750ml)
ZMK 180 โ 250
Smirnoff Vodka (750ml)
ZMK 150 โ 200
Konyagi (local spirit, 750ml)
ZMK 40 โ 65
Savanna Cider (330ml, 6-pack)
ZMK 85 โ 120
Robertson Sweet Red Wine (750ml)
ZMK 80 โ 120
Four Cousins Wine (3L box)
ZMK 150 โ 200
Alcohol Market in Zambia โ Guide
Zambian Breweries (ABInBev) dominates with Mosi Lager, Eagle Lager, and Castle Lager. National Breweries produces Chibuku Shake Shake, a sorghum-based opaque beer popular in compounds and rural areas. The spirits market is import-driven, with South African wines widely available.
Where to Buy
Shoprite and Pick n Pay offer the widest selection at competitive prices. Bottle stores charge 10-15% more for convenience. Bars and restaurants mark up 50-100% over shop prices. Duty-free shops at KKIA save 30-40% on premium spirits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a beer cost in Zambia?
A standard 500ml Mosi Lager costs ZMK 18-22 from a shop and ZMK 28-40 at a bar. Budget beers like Eagle Lager start at ZMK 12. Premium imports like Heineken cost ZMK 25-35. Traditional Chibuku is cheapest at ZMK 8-12 per litre.
What is the drinking age in Zambia?
The legal drinking age in Zambia is 18 years. Enforcement varies, particularly in informal settings. There are no restrictions on alcohol advertising on TV/radio, though recent policy discussions have proposed tighter regulations.
What are the most popular beers in Zambia?
Mosi Lager is the national beer, brewed by Zambian Breweries (ABInBev). Rhino Lager is the main competitor. Castle Lager is the leading import. For budget drinkers, Eagle Lager and Chibuku dominate. Premium choices include Heineken and Windhoek.
How much is alcohol excise duty in Zambia?
ZRA applies excise duty of: 40% on clear beer, 15% on opaque beer, 60% on spirits, and 40% on wine. VAT at 16% applies on top. These duties account for approximately 45-55% of the retail price of imported spirits.