The United Kingdom and Namibia traded goods and services worth N$2.5 billion, an increase of 5.4%, in the period between the second quarter of last year and Q2 2021, figures released by the UK’s Department of International Trade show.
The UK exported goods and services worth N$1.69 billion to Namibia during the period under review, recording a 29% increase in trade when compared to the previous year. At the same time, the European nation’s imports from Namibia declined by 24% to N$806.7 million.
According to the figures, Namibia was the UK’s 136th largest trading partner in the four quarters to the end of Q2 2021 accounting for less than 0.1% of total UK trade.
The British High Commission in Windhoek says it is working closely with the Namibian High Commission in London and regularly collaborates to amplify and increase trading opportunities for both Namibia and the United Kingdom.
“The UK also works with other regional bodies to maximize opportunities – incl. with the Government of the Republic of Namibia, local business chambers and regional trade and commerce bodies.”
On the impact of Brexit on trade between the UK and Namibia, British High Commission in Windhoek said , “Namibia and the UK have successfully been trade partners for many years, this relationship continues to be successful under the Southern African Customs Union and Mozambique – UK Economic Partnership Agreement (SACU+M – UK EPA) (in place since 1 January 2021).”
“The EPA is a strong foundation for future trading between our countries, and the region as a whole. It will help reduce poverty through trade, sustain jobs and further strengthen trade and investment ties for years to come.”
The UK is made up of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.