Windhoek: Total mineral sales in Namibia's mining sector rose by 25% to over N$64 billion in 2025, up from N$51.3 billion in 2024, despite an overall industry contraction of 9.4% driven by a slump in the diamond market. Speaking at the official opening of the 13th Chamber of Mines Expo and Conference on Wednesday, Chamber president George Botshiwe revealed that strong output in gold and uranium buffered the broader industry against severe diamond market headwinds.
According to Namibia Press Agency, the opening was attended by President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, cabinet ministers, and relevant stakeholders. Botshiwe highlighted that direct corporate taxes paid by Chamber members jumped 39%, rising from N$5.6 billion in 2024 to N$7.8 billion in 2025. "This highlights the continued operational strength of chamber members, as well as the diversification in the Namibian mining industry, with uranium, gold, and emerging minerals increasingly contributing to the sector's growth," Botshiwe said.
Royalties paid to the state rose by 9% to N$2.5 billion, while export levies surged by 90% to N$685 million. In addition, mining sector employees contributed an estimated N$1.5 billion in Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) taxes. Overall, the sector maintained its position as the largest contributor among primary industries, accounting for approximately 14% of Namibia's gross domestic product (GDP) in 2025.
Gross fixed capital investment in the industry grew by 31% due to active mine construction, expansions, and equipment upgrades, while exploration expenditure expanded by 22% to N$1.5 billion. On local economic integration, Botshiwe noted that Chamber members spent N$24 billion on locally sourced goods and services in 2025, representing 65% of their total procurement budget.
"These investments demonstrate the mining sector's contribution cannot be measured solely in terms of production, exports, or tax revenue. It is equally reflected in the opportunities created for individuals, for small businesses, through local procurement, skills transfer, and long-term partnerships that continue to strengthen our communities," he stressed. The industry directly employed over 20,000 workers, with Namibian citizens comprising 98% of permanent staff, he concluded.