Namibia to launch new trade under AFCFTA

By Staff Reporter

Namibia will officially launch its first-ever, new export consignment under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), framework on Monday.

This was announced by the Ministry of International Relations and Trade (MIRT), that Honourable Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, the Minister will officiate the historic launching ceremony scheduled to take place on Monday, 30 June 2025 in Walvis Bay.

In a media statement issued by Amb. Penda Naanda , Executive Director states that “This historic event will mark the beginning of Namibia’s active participation in the AfCFTA, an African Union’s flagship initiative under Agenda 2063, which aims to create a single continental market for goods and services, promoting economic integration and development across Africa.”

He added that the African continent consists of a market of over 1.3 billion people and a combined GDP of approximately US$3.4 trillion. “AfCFTA offers Namibian businesses a tremendous opportunity to expand their market reach, enhance competitiveness, and contribute to economic growth and diversification.”

Namibia has so far demonstrated its commitment to the AfCFTA process by signing the agreement on July 2, 2018, which was ratified on 25 January 2019, and deposited its instrument of ratification on 1 February 2019.

“In a significant move towards operational readiness, Namibia gazetted its AfCFTA tariff offer on 20 December 2024, thereby positioning itself to begin trading under the framework.” He said

Amb. Naanda further described the initiative that is expected to open new trade opportunities for Namibian producers and exporters by reduced tariffs and streamlined trade policies, thereby facilitating greater competitiveness in the African market.

“It will also support the diversification of Namibia’s economy by stimulating growth in a range of sectors and contributing to job creation and industrial development.” He Concluded.