Martin Endjala
The chief executive officer of the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB), Nangula Uaandja, has urged businesses to look beyond the country’s borders in order to increase their clientele.
Uaandja was responding to questions following a notice by the Ministry of Industrialisation and Trade requesting samples of Namibian products and promotional materials.
These items will be distributed to Namibian missions, consulates, and embassies, as well as high commissions abroad.
“Given the small size of the domestic market, it is essential for Namibian businesses to look beyond our borders. By targeting just 0.01% of this vast market, Namibian entrepreneurs can reach 800 000 potential customers, driving economic growth and fostering sustainable development,” said Uaandja.
She said NIPDB is committed to enhancing export promotion by leveraging Namibia’s strategic position within SACU, SADC, and the broader African market.
She said that this strategy aims to give entrepreneurs access to a global market of potentially 8 billion people.
Uaandja added that NIPDB remains dedicated to supporting and empowering businesses to seize these opportunities and thrive on the international stage.
“Micro, small, and medium enterprises are encouraged to be innovative and adopt a global mindset from the beginning in order to produce quality products that are competitive in more mature and larger markets. Additionally, they should prioritise doing most of the value addition locally to benefit from greater revenue generation,” she said.
Uaandja wants to see more finished products exported to strategic markets around the world.
Businesses are ready to trade outside the country to deliver items and products before 31 July to the ministry head offices in Windhoek.
The NIPDB has also invited business people to participate in upcoming investment attraction missions to Ghana, Russia, Cuba, Angola, Brazil and China.
According to the invitation, the purpose is to foster economic collaboration and explore new investment opportunities.
The trips will be undertaken between 17 September and 10 November.
