The Ministry of International Relations and Trade (MIRT) says market diversification and the expansion of Namibia’s trade mandate will be central to its strategy to strengthen the country’s position in African and global trade.
Addressing a general staff meeting, Minister of International Relations and Trade Selma Ashipala-Musavyi said the ministry is prioritising the enhancement of Namibia’s trade capabilities to fully realise the potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
She said the strategy will focus on sectors where Namibia has a clear competitive advantage, while expanding access to new markets to reduce vulnerability to external shocks and global logistics disruptions that have recently affected the cost of living and economic stability.
“To fully leverage the potential of the AfCFTA, Namibia must strengthen its trade capabilities through market diversification and a targeted focus on priority sectors where the country enjoys a competitive advantage,” Ashipala-Musavyi said.
The ministry identified agriculture, mining, renewable energy and logistics as core sectors underpinning the diversification drive. At the same time, it is seeking to expand trade in services, with a focus on tourism, business and financial services, health, transport and communications to enhance overall competitiveness.
Ashipala-Musavyi said the 2026 trade strategy follows the strategic merger of international relations with trade and investment promotion, a decision taken by the President to ensure diplomacy delivers tangible economic outcomes.
She said the ministry has already finalised the Trade Management Bill and completed national consultations on the Investment Promotion and Facilitation Bills, aimed at creating an enabling environment for local entrepreneurs and traders.
“This year, we will finalise and roll out key policy documents that will strengthen efficiency, effectiveness and accountability across the ministry,” she said. “Our planning must be clear, our coordination must improve, and our reporting must reflect measurable results. We have to put measures in place to clearly track progress.”
The ministry said the reforms are intended to position Namibia as a more resilient and competitive trading partner within Africa and beyond.
