Namibia and Botswana are targeting April 2027 for the full implementation of a customs arrangement that will allow trusted businesses to move goods between the two countries with faster clearance and fewer inspections.
The Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRA) said the Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) for Authorised Economic Operators (AEOs) will first undergo an eight-month pilot starting on 18 August 2026.
The pilot will test whether customs systems and border agencies in both countries can effectively recognise and provide preferential treatment to businesses accredited as compliant traders.
NamRA Chief Strategic Communications and Support Engagements Yarukeekuro Ndorokaze said the arrangement will initially facilitate movements through the Trans Kalahari/Mamuno One-Stop Border Post and the Port of Walvis Bay.
“Under the MRA, accredited AEO traders in Namibia and Botswana will receive reciprocal recognition and enjoy enhanced customs facilitation benefits, including faster clearance of goods, reduced inspections where appropriate, improved predictability and greater supply chain efficiency,” Ndorokaze said.
The pilot effectively means that a company already vetted and accredited as a trusted trader by NamRA will have that status recognised by Botswana customs authorities. Botswana-accredited traders will receive similar recognition in Namibia.
The arrangement is intended to reduce duplication in customs processes and allow authorities to focus resources on higher-risk shipments while accelerating the movement of cargo belonging to compliant operators.
Ahead of the August launch, NamRA, the Botswana Unified Revenue Service, the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) Secretariat and other border agencies conducted a final dry run between the Port of Walvis Bay and the Trans Kalahari/Mamuno One-Stop Border Post.
The exercise was used to assess operational readiness, validate procedures and identify potential challenges before live cargo begins moving under the pilot.
NamRA currently has 10 accredited AEOs, although the programme is open to eligible importers, exporters, manufacturers, logistics providers and customs clearing agents.
The AEO programme operates under the World Customs Organization’s SAFE Framework of Standards and provides customs benefits to businesses considered compliant and secure.
NamRA said lessons from the pilot will be used to refine procedures before the two countries move to full implementation in April 2027.
The initiative forms part of SACU efforts to improve regional trade facilitation and reduce customs barriers affecting the movement of goods between member states.
