Namibia ended 2025 with a significantly improved external trade position, supported by higher mineral exports and a substantial reduction in imports, according to official data released by the Namibia Statistics Agency. The figures point to a narrowing of the trade deficit in the final month of the year and a broader easing of external imbalances over the twelve month period.
Data published by the Namibia Statistics Agency show that the country recorded a trade deficit of 393 million Namibian dollars in December 2025. This represented a marked improvement from the deficit of 4.4 billion Namibian dollars reported in November. The December outcome also compared favourably with the same period in 2024, when Namibia recorded a trade surplus.
According to Statistician General Alex Shimuafeni, exports increased by 7.5 percent compared with the previous month, reaching 10.7 billion Namibian dollars. Over the same period, imports declined by 22.9 percent to 11.1 billion Namibian dollars. The combined effect of higher export earnings and lower import expenditure contributed to the improved trade balance at year end.
For the full year, cumulative exports rose to 125.7 billion Namibian dollars, up from 116.8 billion Namibian dollars in 2024. Cumulative imports declined to 150.7 billion Namibian dollars from 158.5 billion Namibian dollars a year earlier. These trends suggest a gradual strengthening of Namibia’s external trade position, reflecting both global commodity dynamics and domestic demand conditions.
Mining commodities remained central to export performance. Non monetary gold, diamonds and uranium continued to account for the largest share of export earnings, underlining the importance of extractive industries in Namibia’s economy. At the same time, non mineral exports such as fish, fruit and nuts also contributed to growth, supported by seasonal agricultural output and established regional and international market access.
The contraction in imports was mainly linked to reduced purchases of petroleum oils, fertilisers, industrial machinery and manufactured metal products. This decline eased pressure on the trade balance, although it may also reflect softer investment and consumption demand in certain sectors of the economy.
South Africa remained Namibia’s largest trading partner for both exports and imports during 2025. Other significant export destinations included China, Botswana, Zambia and the Netherlands, while key sources of imports included China, India, Oman and Zambia. These patterns highlight Namibia’s continued integration within regional and South South trade networks alongside longer established global partnerships.
Trade with the African continent strengthened towards the end of the year. In December, Namibia recorded a trade surplus of 502 million Namibian dollars with African partners, as exports exceeded imports. Intra African trade accounted for more than half of total exports, reflecting the growing relevance of regional markets and the gradual implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area.
Taken together, the latest data suggest a cautiously positive trajectory for Namibia’s trade performance. While mineral exports continue to play a dominant role, the contribution of non mineral sectors and regional trade underscores the diversity and resilience within the economy. The figures also point to broader continental efforts to deepen intra African trade and reduce vulnerability to external shocks, situating Namibia’s experience within a wider African economic context.
