The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) Zambia is seeking an experienced consultant to support the establishment of a cross-border market in Luangwa District, strategically located at the intersection of Zambia, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe. This initiative is designed to address persistent barriers to economic integration faced by border communities in Southern Africa, with a particular emphasis on empowering women who are central to informal trade in the region. Despite their vital role in regional trade corridors, border communities continue to grapple with inadequate infrastructure, fragmented regulatory frameworks, and limited institutional coordination. These challenges restrict the potential of cross-border commerce to drive poverty reduction and economic development. In response, IOM, in partnership with the governments of Zambia, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe, is implementing the Cross-Border Market Development Initiative, funded by the IOM Development Fund. The project aims to create a formal market hub in Luangwa District, providing a safe, regulated, and accessible space for trade, thereby enhancing income-generating opportunities and reducing vulnerabilities associated with informal cross-border activities. The consultant will play a pivotal role in laying the groundwork for this market, conducting in-depth analysis and designing solutions that will inform investment planning, stakeholder alignment, and resource mobilisation. The assignment will require a comprehensive review of legal and regulatory frameworks, trade facilitation mechanisms, infrastructure needs, and security protocols, all with a focus on gender-sensitive and inclusive market design. Throughout the consultancy, the selected expert will engage with government officials, border agencies, and community stakeholders across Zambia, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe. Field visits will be essential to assess local dynamics and infrastructure, while stakeholder forums will facilitate bilateral progress and consensus-building. The consultant will also be responsible for drafting a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalise inter-governmental cooperation and for developing a costed proposal for the market’s construction. Key deliverables will include: An inception report outlining methodology and work plan A comprehensive regulatory and legal framework report with actionable recommendations A draft MoU between Zambia and the participating countries A gender-sensitive market design and layout, informed by field consultations A costed project proposal for the construction of the border market Reports from stakeholder forums and consultations To be considered for this assignment, candidates should possess an advanced degree in International Trade, Economics, Law, or a related field, and have at least ten years of experience in trade facilitation, border management, or similar areas. Proven expertise in developing regulatory frameworks and market designs, strong analytical and research skills, and excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities are essential. Experience working with international organisations and government agencies, particularly in cross-border or trilateral contexts, and a demonstrated ability to apply gender analysis in infrastructure or market design, are highly desirable. The consultancy is expected to be completed within six months from the date of contract signing. The consultant will report to the Chief of Mission, IOM Zambia, and collaborate closely with the Project Steering Committee, IOM Regional Thematic Specialists, and other relevant stakeholders. Interested candidates are invited to submit their applications, including a detailed CV, a cover letter, and a proposal outlining their approach to the assignment, to the following address: Application to be addressed to IOM Lusaka using Recruitment email address: [email protected]  not later than 5th December 2025 @ 12.00 midnight. Please remember to quote the Call for Application Number: ZM-020 December 2025 and title: EOI – Cross-Border Market Development Consultancy in the email subject line. IOM is committed to diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals. Zambian national consultants, including persons with disabilities, are encouraged to apply. Due to large volumes of applicants, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.