Namibia is moving to expand its agricultural exports to China by introducing new products, including biltong, mutton, goat meat and premium seafood, as part of efforts to deepen trade ties and diversify its export base.
Minister of International Relations and Trade Selma Ashipala-Musavyi said the initiative builds on the country’s established beef trade and aims to increase both the volume and range of Namibian products entering the Chinese market.
“Our meat is performing very well, which is why we now want to begin exporting mutton and goat meat. Our sanitary standards are very high, and Namibian meat is fully traceable from farm to fork,” she said.
She added that Namibia is also looking to introduce processed products such as sausages and dried meat, including biltong, alongside seafood exports such as oysters and abalone.
“I am confident these products will find a market in China. Our seafood is of exceptional quality and has strong export potential,” she said.
The expansion is supported by the introduction of zero-tariff treatment for Namibian exports from 1 May 2026, a move expected to strengthen trade flows and improve access for local producers.
Government said the removal of tariffs is also expected to support Namibia’s industrialisation drive by encouraging local processing of agricultural products into higher-value exports.
Ashipala-Musavyi said the strategy is aimed at reducing reliance on raw commodity exports while creating opportunities for value addition, job creation and broader economic growth.
“I believe this will enhance industrialisation and improve access to the Chinese market. It has the potential to accelerate development in Namibia and across Africa,” she said.
She added that Namibia will leverage the Port of Walvis Bay to increase trade volumes and strengthen its position as a regional logistics hub.
“As a coastal country, many of our landlocked neighbours depend on our ports. Increased trade will translate into more activity at Walvis Bay as goods move through our facilities,” she said.
