Namibia, one of the country’s strongest and closest trading partners, is encouraging South African SMEs to seize growing trade opportunities. Through the facilitation of the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency (SEDFA), businesses are gaining access to the information and tools they need to break into new markets and strengthen regional economic integration.
Speaking at a recent trade engagement session, SEDFA highlighted the importance of empowering local entrepreneurs with practical knowledge on cross-border trade. Understanding market access procedures, trade regulations, and investment pathways can pave the way for sustainable growth.
“We want to expand their operations into the Southern African region. Our goal is to equip small businesses with the right knowledge and support so they can confidently participate in cross-border trade,” SEDFA Trade and Export Promotion Manager Leah Cherian said.
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Trade between South Africa and Namibia has remained strong over the years, with Namibia consistently ranking among South Africa’s top five export destinations in the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
Many of these opportunities are particularly well-suited for SMEs, which play a key role in driving job creation and inclusive economic growth in South Africa.
“Namibia is not only well positioned for trade, but we serve, as I said, as a gateway and a distribution hub into the Southern African region; our ports, corridors and road networks make it a natural link between landlocked neighbours and global markets,” Tupanduleshipomi Dengwa, a consultant in policy research at the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB), said,
SEDFA has committed to supporting entrepreneurs through trade missions, workshops, and one-on-one advisory services aimed at building export readiness. This includes guidance on regulatory compliance, organisation, pricing strategies, and connecting SMEs with Namibian business networks.
According to Gauteng-based clothing manufacturer and SME owner Amanda Nkosi, this is a good opportunity.
“For SMEs to grow beyond borders, they need access to markets and reliable partnerships. Namibia is an ideal partner because of its proximity, similar business environment, and existing trade agreements with South Africa,” she said.
Local entrepreneurs have also welcomed these efforts, saying they provide a realistic pathway to expanding their customer base.
“For a small business like mine, getting into the Namibian market would be a game changer having SEDFA guide us through the process gives us confidence to compete internationally,” said Nkosi.
jannifer@vutivibusiness.co.za
