The Ministry of Industrialisation and Trade (MIT) has launched the Trade Information Portal (TIP), aimed at simplifying access to trade-related information and facilitating international trade, particularly for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Speaking at the official launch, Deputy Minister of MIT, Verna Sinimbo, said the TIP consolidates all necessary regulatory requirements for importing, exporting, and transporting goods in one centralised platform.
“Today, we proudly introduce the Namibia Trade Information Portal, a single platform where all trade-related information is aggregated under one roof and made easily accessible to the business community. With the support of the European Union under the Technical Assistance to Strengthen Trade and Investment between Namibia and the EU, the Ministry of Industrialisation and Trade has successfully developed this portal,” Sinimbo said.
Previously, trade-related information was scattered across multiple government departments and agencies, making it difficult for businesses to navigate regulatory processes. The TIP is expected to reduce costs by minimising the need for multiple visits to government offices and streamlining processing times. It also provides businesses with the convenience of accessing trade regulations and requirements online, making transactions more efficient.
Furthermore, the platform enhances transparency by clarifying cross-border trade procedures and reducing uncertainty for businesses. By improving access to regulatory information, Sinimbo noted that the TIP contributes to a better business environment, supporting ease of doing business and attracting both local and foreign investment.
In addition to local trade information, the portal integrates with global platforms such as the Global Trade Help Desk, making market research more accessible for businesses.
“These agreements offer enormous opportunities for Namibian businesses to access international markets. However, despite these trade agreements, many of our business operators, particularly MSMEs, have yet to fully harness the vast market potential they provide,” Sinimbo said.
The initiative aligns with Namibia’s commitment to the World Trade Organisation’s (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement and regional trade frameworks, including the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA).
The launch of the TIP marks a significant step in improving Namibia’s trade ecosystem, enabling businesses to access vital regulatory information and enhancing their competitiveness in international markets.
