Namibia reviews ban on South African vegetable imports

NAMIBIA – Namibia is considering lifting its ban on vegetable imports from South Africa, a decision that could impact trade across the region.

The review comes after ongoing concerns about trade relations within the Southern African Customs Union (Sacu), which includes South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Lesotho, and Eswatini.

The restrictions, first imposed in 2021, were meant to strengthen local agricultural sectors, but critics argue that they disrupt trade and create uncertainty for businesses.

Wandile Sihlobo, chief economist at Agbiz, highlighted that trade tensions within Sacu have been a growing issue. “Some trade friction in South Africa’s trade relations with the African continent had primarily been within the union’s free-trade zone,” he said.

Namibia’s restrictions remain in place, with officials arguing that they help protect domestic farmers and maintain food security. Botswana, on the other hand, lifted its ban in December 2024, allowing South African vegetable imports to resume.

The uncertainty caused by Namibia’s monthly reviews of the ban has raised concerns within the agricultural sector.

Bennie van Zyl, general manager of TLU SA, emphasized the importance of stability for farmers. “When a farmer produces any commodity, having a stable market is crucial for profitability,” he said.

South Africa’s agricultural exports rely heavily on Sacu, which accounted for about 20% of the country’s US$13.2 billion in agricultural exports in 2023. Some economists warn that policies restricting trade could harm regional integration.

Paul Makube, a senior agricultural economist at FNB, previously called the import ban a protectionist measure that disrupts market operations.

He also pointed out that these restrictions could slow down efforts to improve trade within Africa. “Collaborative efforts in technology sharing and economic support are crucial for both nations,” Makube stated.

While restrictions remain on certain goods, some progress has been made in regional trade. Zimbabwe, Namibia, and Botswana have lifted their bans on South African livestock and maize, a development that is expected to improve trade and food security.

South Africa pushes for dialogue over citrus ban

South Africa is also working to address a separate import ban on citrus by Namibia and Botswana. Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has emphasized the need for discussion rather than retaliation.

“We believe we can find an amicable solution,” Steenhuisen said. “I don’t think we need to end up with a situation where you block our products, and we block yours.”

“I hope we will really be able to sit down with Botswana and Namibia and find a compromise. Our Sacu agreement advocates for open borders and industry cooperation, and it’s clear that temporary border closures are not a viable solution.”

The ongoing trade restrictions have sparked debate about their effects on agricultural production and economic stability in the region.

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