MIT launches National Trade Policy and Investment Programme

WINDHOEK: The Ministry of Industrialisation and Trade officially launched the National Trade Policy and the National Action Programme for Investment ( NAPI ) in Windhoek on Monday . Speaking at the launch , Minister Lucia Iipumbu said the National Trade Policy aims to strengthen Namibia ' s position in regional and global trade . She stated that the policy outlines objectives such as expanding markets for Namibian goods and services , empowering micro , small , and medium enterprises , and enhancing the country ' s capacity to negotiate trade agreements . Iipumbu noted that the policy is a strategic response to the evolving global economic landscape and that Namibia aims to increase exports , improve market access , and create a more competitive domestic trading environment . ' The National Trade Policy we launch today is designed to strengthen Namibia ' s position as a regional and global player in trade related aspects . We were deliberate in crafting a policy that responds to the current needs of our econo my , ensuring that our trade strategies are inclusive , sustainable , and aligned with the global economic dynamics ,' she said . The policy , according to Iipumbu , is the result of extensive consultations with stakeholders from various sectors , including government , private enterprises , and civil society . She also noted that the framework is aligned with Namibia ' s national , regional , and international economic policies and highlighted the importance of cooperation with regional bodies such as the Southern African Customs Union and the Southern African Development Community . In addition to the trade policy , the NAPI was launched as a key component of Namibia ' s investment strategy . To this end , the minister stated that the programme focuses on creating a transparent and predictable business environment , protecting investors ' rights , and promoting responsible business practices . The NAPI is part of Namibia ' s broader national development goals , including Vision 2030 and the Harambee Prosper ity Plan . Iipumbu stated that a technical working group will oversee the implementation of NAPI , with Ministry of Industrialisation and Trade playing a lead role . She emphasised the private sector ' s responsibility in driving trade and investment and called for collaboration between government and business operators to ensure the success of both the trade policy and NAPI . Source: The Namibia Press Agency