Online Reporter
Farirai Machivenyika
Senior Reporter
ZimTrade will lead a delegation of Zimbabwean Companies to Windhoek, Namibia, next month as part of efforts to grow exports and grow business ties between the two countries.
The tour will run between September 10-12, according to a statement in ZimTrade’s July Post.
The outward mission will connect Zimbabwean exporters with Namibian buyers, distributors, and potential business partners. Participating companies will use the mission to explore market opportunities, pursue supply contracts and establish business relationships in Namibia.
“Services will be a major focus of the mission, with participating companies drawn from sectors such as mining, construction and engineering, education and agricultural consultancy. Zimbabwe has a strong skills base in these sectors, allowing local firms to market their expertise and pursue regional contracts,” ZimTrade said.
“The mission will also include manufacturers and suppliers of industrial products, fast-moving consumer goods, mining supplies, agricultural inputs and farm machinery.
“These sectors have been identified as having potential in the Namibian market, where demand is supported by activity in mining, agriculture, construction and consumer industries.”
The programme will begin with a business forum bringing together private-sector representatives, policymakers, senior government officials and industry stakeholders from Zimbabwe and Namibia and discussions will focus on market requirements, trade regulations, procurement procedures and areas of possible cooperation.
Business-to-business meetings will also be held to connect Zimbabwean companies with selected Namibian buyers, distributors and partners.
“The meetings are expected to allow exporters to discuss orders, distribution arrangements, partnerships and possible joint ventures,” it said
“Participating companies will also showcase their products and services during targeted showcases. The mission is expected to help local firms gain a better understanding of Namibian product standards, packaging requirements, pricing structures and distribution channels.
“Such market information is important for companies seeking to enter the market and compete effectively. Zimbabwe and Namibia share strong political and economic relations built over many years of cooperation.
“Trade between the two countries is supported by the Zimbabwe–Namibia Bilateral Trade Agreement, which gives qualifying products preferential market access.”
The Sadc Protocol on Trade also provides a framework for increased trade between the two markets. Apart from the existing legal framework, Zimbabwe’s dry port at Walvis Bay gives local exporters access to a strategic route for goods destined for regional and international markets.
The facility lowers transport costs, improves cargo movement and shortens transit times for exporters using the Port of Walvis Bay, giving Zimbabwean firms a more efficient route into the Namibian market.
ZimTrade added that despite this logistical advantage, trade figures show that there is still considerable scope to grow Zimbabwe’s exports to Namibia.
Exports to Namibia reached US$26,2 million in 2022 before declining to US$12,8 million in 2025, although Zimbabwe’s export basket has, however, continued to broaden.
“Exports to Namibia include electricity, coal, pharmaceuticals, cordials, tobacco, sugar, agricultural implements, iron and steel bars, and handcrafted products,” it said.
“Imports from Namibia stood at US$36,2 million in 2025, with cement clinker, petroleum preparations, beer and frozen seafood among the main products.
“The trade gap points to the need for stronger export promotion and closer engagement between businesses in the two countries. Greater participation by Zimbabwean service providers could also help widen the country’s sources of export earnings.
“Mining, education and agricultural consultancy firms can use the mission to establish regional partnerships and build a presence in the Namibian market. Manufacturers and suppliers will also have an opportunity to diversify their customer base and increase regional sales.”
