Namibia has unveiled the National Trade Policy (NTP) and the National Action Programme for Investment (NAPI), designed to drive the country’s economic growth by facilitating global trade and investment opportunities.
Minister of Industrialisation and Trade Lucia Iipumbu said the two major frameworks represent Namibia’s collective commitment to fostering economic growth, enhancing regional and international competitiveness and ultimately improving the livelihoods of its people.
The NTP aims to diversify Namibia’s export markets and increase its capacity to negotiate favourable trade agreements.
“The National Trade Policy we launch today is designed to strengthen Namibia’s position as a regional and global player in trade-related aspects. We were deliberate in crafting a policy that responds to the current needs of our economy, ensuring that our trade strategies are inclusive, sustainable and aligned with the global economic dynamics,” she added.
Key objectives of the NTP include the consolidation and diversification of existing markets for Namibian goods and services, the increase of Namibia’s exports of goods and services in regional, continental and global markets, and the empowerment of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), women and youth-owned businesses.
“These initiatives aim to create a competitive domestic trading environment while enhancing Namibia’s institutional and technical capacity to effectively negotiate and implement trade agreements and trade-related initiatives,” she said.
Turning to the NAPI, Iipumbu outlined its role in fostering a transparent and competitive investment climate.
“As a committed member of the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC), Namibia shares the vision of regional integration and collective prosperity. We recognise that attracting and facilitating investment is central to our shared goal of sustained economic development and deeper regional integration. In this context, the NAPI serves as a crucial instrument in our broader strategy for growth and industrialisation,” she said.
The Minister said the NAPI aligns with regional objectives under the SADC Finance and Investment Protocol and reflects Namibia’s broader development goals as outlined in Vision 2030 and the Harambee Prosperity Plans.
“Its core priorities include promoting a coherent and transparent investment environment, enhancing market access and competition, and securing and protecting investors’ rights,” said Iipumbu.
A Technical Working Group will oversee the implementation of the NAPI, utilising a mechanism called the Rapid Results Approach.
The Ministry of Industrialisation and Trade will guide the strategic management of both policies, but Minister Iipumbu urged private sector collaboration.
“I encourage business operators to establish their own administrative and coordination mechanisms through their associations and to partner with the government in the implementation of the national trade policy,” she noted.
