Niël Terblanché
A promising avenue emerged for Namibia’s green industries to access European markets, as the union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) offers a competitive edge for the country’s eco-friendly exports
This revolutionary initiative was discussed at the Namibia-EU Trade and Sustainability Conference in Windhoek last week and aims to encourage global adherence to strict climate standards by imposing carbon pricing on imported goods, supporting Namibia’s green industrialisation vision.
James Mnyupe, Namibia’s Green Hydrogen Commissioner, pointed to CBAM’s implication in providing a preferential pathway for Namibian green products such as green iron and ammonia.
“These products, developed sustainably, meet high environmental standards that align with CBAM’s requirements, granting Namibia a valuable opportunity to expand its market presence in Europe,” he said.
Mnyupe stressed that Namibia’s green iron, sourced from projects like Hyiron-Oshivela, stands to gain from CBAM’s environmental standards, which the European Union is reinforcing to drive global emissions reduction.
“This mechanism promises Namibia’s green products a head start by offering access to EU markets under favourable carbon-related terms,” he said.
The EU’s CBAM is currently in a transition phase but is set to impact international trade significantly, promoting sustainable practices by holding all producers, domestic and foreign, to the same high standards.
According to EU Ambassador to Namibia, Ana Beatriz Martins, CBAM does more than just create a level playing field; it opens a door for countries like Namibia to access European markets with green products.
She said that Namibia’s commitment to producing green iron could place it advantageously in the EU’s eco-conscious market, adding, “Namibia’s green iron is destined to highly benefit from CBAM.”
Lucia Iipumbu, Namibia’s Minister of Industrialisation and Trade, stated that Namibia is committed to sustainable trade and its ambitions for a low-carbon economy.
She recognised CBAM as a potential driver of economic growth for Namibia, enabling the country to leverage its natural resources responsibly.
“CBAM aligns well with Namibia’s objectives to reduce emissions, highlighting Namibia’s broader ambition to position itself as a leader in climate action within Africa,” she said.
Namibia’s green industries have already gained attention for their climate-conscious approach, particularly through initiatives in renewable energy and low-carbon manufacturing.
The Hyiron-Oshivela project, which produces green iron, demonstrates Namibia’s shift towards sustainable, innovative industry models.
“By utilising renewable energy in the iron production process, the project not only minimises carbon emissions but also aligns seamlessly with the EU’s environmental directives, creating an appealing product for the European market,” she said.
The EU’s trade frameworks, including CBAM, also encourage ethical practices across supply chains, emphasising human rights and fair labour standards.
Iipumbu said that Namibia’s adherence to these frameworks demonstrates the country’s commitment to sustainable development and ethical trade practices, further enhancing its appeal as a trade partner in the EU market.
“The Namibian government aims to strengthen local skills, transparency, and compliance to meet these standards and continue accessing high-value international markets,” she said.
Ipumbu added that CBAM represents a key chance for Namibia to align with global climate priorities while boosting trade relations and promoting green industrialisation.
