Namibia’s vehicle market recorded stronger sales in February 2026, with total units sold rising to 1,165, reflecting improved demand conditions and a recovery from seasonal weakness at the start of the year.
The latest figures show a 4.1% increase from 1,119 units sold in February 2025, while sales were 15.9% higher than the 1,005 units recorded in January.
Simonis Storm economist Almandro Jansen said the February performance marks the strongest outturn for the month since 2016, lifting year-to-date sales to 2,170 units, also 4.1% higher than the same period last year.
“This represents the strongest February outturn since 2016 and lifts year-to-date volumes to 2,170 units, 4.1% above the corresponding period last year,” Jansen said.
He noted that the sharp month-on-month increase suggests that the typical slowdown at the start of the year has largely dissipated, with underlying demand remaining resilient.
Passenger vehicles led the recovery, with sales rising 17.6% month-on-month to 582 units in February from 495 units in January. On an annual basis, passenger vehicle sales increased 13.9% from 511 units in February 2025.
Jansen attributed the strength in passenger vehicle sales to the cumulative impact of monetary easing during 2025, which has reduced borrowing costs and improved affordability for consumers.
“The strength here is likely a reflection of the cumulative monetary easing that took place over the course of 2025, which has gradually filtered through into lower borrowing costs and improved affordability for households,” he said.
Commercial vehicle sales showed mixed performance. Light commercial vehicles (LCVs) accounted for the largest share of sales at 503 units, although this was 6.9% lower than the 540 units recorded in February 2025.
Overall commercial vehicle volumes increased 14.3% month-on-month to 583 units from 510 units in January, but declined 3.8% compared to 606 units a year earlier. Medium commercial vehicle sales stood at 24 units, down 4.0% year-on-year.
Rental companies increased activity during the month, purchasing 82 units compared to 32 units in January, accounting for 7.04% of total sales. Dealership sales dominated at 1,083 units, representing 92.96% of total volumes, while no government purchases were recorded during the period.
Jansen said commercial vehicle demand remains elevated by historical standards and continues to serve as an indicator of broader economic activity.
“Commercial volumes remain elevated by historical standards and continue to function as a useful leading indicator of broader economic momentum,” he said.
He added that this trend is particularly relevant as Namibia’s economy prepares for increased investment activity across multiple sectors.
