Namibia imported more than 1.3 million litres of milk in January 2026, representing a 92.4% year-on-year increase, according to the Livestock and Livestock Products Board of Namibia (LLPB).
The country imported 1,315,202 litres during the month, up from 683,663 litres recorded in January 2025. South Africa remained the dominant supplier, accounting for 99.7% of total imports.
At the same time, local milk production declined by 4.3% year-on-year to 1.28 million litres, down from 1.33 million litres produced in January 2025. Output also fell by 8.7% compared with December 2025, reflecting seasonal supply adjustments.
“In contrast, milk imports increased sharply by 92.4% year-on-year to 1,315,202 litres from 683,663 litres in January 2025, indicating increased reliance on external supply, mainly from South Africa which supplied 99.7%,” the report stated.
Combined domestic production and imports show that Namibia’s milk self-sufficiency ratio stood at approximately 49.3% in January 2026, meaning the country produced less than half of the milk it consumed during the period. Producer prices averaged N$6.70 per litre.
Imports of processed dairy products also increased significantly, rising by 102% year-on-year to 1.89 million kilograms. On a monthly basis, dairy imports increased by 29.8% compared with the 1,455,082 kilograms imported in December 2025.
South Africa again dominated supply, contributing 95.9% of total dairy imports, while other countries supplied relatively small volumes.
“Total dairy product imports also increased significantly, rising by 102.0% year-on-year to 1,888,703 kilograms and by 29.8% month-on-month from December 2025 levels. South Africa remained the dominant supplier, accounting for 95.9% of total dairy imports,” the report said.
While the dairy sector recorded weaker performance, the poultry industry showed strong growth during the same period.
Chicken marketing increased by 44.7% year-on-year to 1.70 million birds, supported by higher slaughter volumes. Egg marketing also rose by 47.6% compared with January 2025.
However, both categories recorded declines from December levels, reflecting a seasonal slowdown following the festive season peak.
Meanwhile, poultry meat imports declined by 28.6% year-on-year, suggesting improved domestic production, although imports increased slightly compared with December to meet ongoing demand.
Poland remained Namibia’s largest poultry meat supplier, accounting for 40.1% of total imports, followed by Brazil with 29.2%. Argentina contributed 10.9%, the Netherlands 9.9%, Spain 4.6%, and South Africa 3.3%.
