Zambia

In Zambia there is currently no specific legal rule on the validity period of Giftcards. The term therefore follows the issuer’s business terms. In general, the Consumer Protection Act No. 46 of 2010 applies, requiring transparency and fair business practices. Providers must ensure expiry dates are clearly communicated.

Giftcards must not be sold in a discriminatory or misleading manner. Sellers must provide clear conditions (validity, restrictions, fees). Under Zambian contract law, Giftcards are treated as prepayment contracts that can expire if the terms were clearly disclosed. Electronic Giftcards are widely used via mobile payment platforms (for example, Airtel Money, MTN).

There is no statutory right to redeem expired Giftcards in Zambia. Businesses may forfeit balances after expiry if the expiry date was clearly communicated in advance. The Consumer Protection Commission nevertheless recommends goodwill measures to promote fair business practices.

For tax purposes, Giftcards in Zambia are generally treated as prepayments. There is no explicit distinction between single purpose and multi purpose Giftcards. On redemption, VAT (16%) applies to the value of goods/services, while issue itself is not taxable. This follows from the Value Added Tax Act (Cap. 331) and guidance from the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA).