Namibia urges China to invest in local manufacturing and green

Namibia’s government has reiterated its push for foreign capital that drives local value addition, calling on Chinese enterprises to expand investments in critical sectors like green hydrogen, mineral beneficiation, and manufacturing. The appeal was made during a Windhoek reception hosted by the Chinese Embassy to mark the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, where officials outlined priorities for future partnership.

Trade and International Relations Minister Selma Ashipala-Musavyi stressed the need to break from Namibia’s long-standing export model by increasing domestic processing of minerals and other resources. This shift, she argued, would generate higher economic returns, create jobs, and transfer advanced technologies to local industries. Her remarks framed industrialization as essential to Namibia’s long-term economic stability.

The initiative follows Namibia’s inclusion in China’s zero-tariff scheme for African exports, which Ashipala-Musavyi described as a critical opportunity. She pointed to sectors where Namibia could add greater local value before shipping goods to China. Namibia attaches particular importance to expanding the range and volume of its exports to China.

China’s Ambassador to Namibia, Zhao Weiping, described the bilateral relationship as a partnership built on shared principles, particularly Namibia’s alignment with China’s stance on sovereignty and multilateral cooperation since establishing diplomatic ties in 1990. He highlighted Namibia’s role in China’s broader engagement with Africa through platforms like the China-Africa Cooperation Forum.

Zhao cited China’s economic growth, from a GDP of RMB 60 billion in 1949 to over RMB 140 trillion today, as proof of its ability to support Namibia’s development priorities. Both governments reaffirmed their commitment to deepening trade, investment, and technical cooperation as the cornerstones of their partnership.

The 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China is officially celebrated on 1 October, with Chinese embassies and consulates hosting early diplomatic receptions worldwide throughout September.