Namibia’s logistics sector is under growing pressure to improve efficiency as trade volumes rise and the country cements its role as a regional trade and transit hub.
To remain competitive, experts warn that Namibia must urgently optimize its infrastructure, systems, and regulations to handle increased cargo flow.
Harold Schmidt, Secretary General of the Namibia Logistics Association (NLA), emphasized that the country cannot afford complacency. “With more cargo expected to pass through Namibia, our logistics chain must be fast, reliable, and cost-effective,” he stated.
Schmidt stressed the importance of streamlining operations by eliminating processes that drive up costs. “Non-tariff barriers (NTBs) on our corridors do not benefit Namibia or the region. Our objective should be to move goods swiftly and competitively.”
He cited the growing emphasis on intra-regional trade and the interdependence of Southern African countries as reasons for urgent action.
One example of a setback, Schmidt said, was Botswana’s new cargo clearing procedure, which now prohibits the consolidation of goods under a single Received-in-Transit (RIT) entry. This change has caused delays and increased costs along a key trade corridor.
“We’re facing significant disruptions on one route. If a three-country bloc cannot address this, how can we expect to grow intra-regional trade further north?” Schmidt questioned.
“If other countries adopt similar measures based on their own interests without considering the broader trade impact, the cost of doing business in the region could become prohibitive.”
He called for a regional commitment to removing NTBs and advocated for cargo pre-clearance procedures, which would prevent unnecessary delays at borders.
“We have access to solutions that can make trade more efficient and affordable, but they require coordinated implementation of harmonized systems, policies, and regulations,” Schmidt said.
As trade opportunities expand, the sector must deliver innovative, forward-thinking solutions. “Namibia has positioned itself well as a viable trade gateway.
But to turn potential into performance, we must back it up with the right policies and practical execution,” he concluded.
