Namibia's trade deficit narrowed to N$3.4 billion in September 2025, a significant improvement from August's N$5.3 billion gap and the N$5.7 billion shortfall recorded the previous year. According to the Namibia Statistics Agency, exports totaled N$7.4 billion while imports reached N$10.8 billion during the month.
Statistician General Alex Shimuafeni stated the reduced deficit demonstrated declining import reliance and resilience in external trade. South Africa remained the top trade partner, taking 17.8 percent of exports and providing 33.3 percent of imports. Minerals dominated exports, with uranium, diamonds, and fish accounting for over half the total value. The country achieved a N$58 million food surplus but recorded a N$210 million beverage deficit. Charcoal exports surged to N$100 million, mainly shipped to the Netherlands, South Africa, and Poland. Shimuafeni stressed that continued export diversification and manufacturing investment remain essential for sustained progress.
Statistician General Alex Shimuafeni stated the reduced deficit demonstrated declining import reliance and resilience in external trade. South Africa remained the top trade partner, taking 17.8 percent of exports and providing 33.3 percent of imports. Minerals dominated exports, with uranium, diamonds, and fish accounting for over half the total value. The country achieved a N$58 million food surplus but recorded a N$210 million beverage deficit. Charcoal exports surged to N$100 million, mainly shipped to the Netherlands, South Africa, and Poland. Shimuafeni stressed that continued export diversification and manufacturing investment remain essential for sustained progress.
