Windhoek:Namibia's exports to the European Union (EU) have significantly increased over the past decade, surpassing N$17 billion in 2025 and supporting an estimated 40,000 direct jobs within the country.
According to Namibia Press Agency, EU Ambassador to Namibia Ana Beatriz Martins discussed these developments during a roundtable focused on trade, investment, and decent work in Windhoek. This event marked the 10th anniversary of the Southern African Development Community (SADC)-EU economic partnership agreement.
Martins highlighted that the expanding trade relationship has led to a trade surplus for Namibia. She emphasized that the benefits of trade and investment should not only be measured by export earnings but also by job creation, skills development, and fair working conditions. She stressed the importance of evaluating economic success by considering the number of jobs created, the development of skills, the involvement of local businesses in value chains, and the provision of safe and fair working conditions for workers.
The EU-funded Sustainable Trade and Investment in Southern Africa (SUSTAIN) Project was also highlighted by Martins. The project, which has received N$18.5 million for implementation from 2024 to 2027 through the International Labour Organisation (ILO), aims to promote responsible business practices, enhance social dialogue, and ensure decent work, contributing to inclusive economic growth.
Additionally, the EU is offering technical assistance to Namibia's vocational education and training sector with a budget of N$9.2 million from January 2025 to January 2027. This initiative aims to develop green-energy qualifications, train instructors, and strengthen industry partnerships to prepare Namibians for opportunities in renewable energy and green hydrogen sectors.
Martins pointed out Namibia's potential in natural resources, renewable energy, and strategic location as keys to expanding value addition, diversifying exports, and creating new economic activities. However, she cautioned that relying solely on investment volumes and export figures is insufficient to gauge economic success. She underlined the necessity for local businesses to be part of value chains and for workers to benefit from safe and fair conditions.
The roundtable convened various stakeholders, including government representatives, employers, workers, and development partners, to explore how trade and investment can generate more and better jobs for Namibians.