The Namibian Agronomic Board (NAB) has launched the Potato Development Scheme, an initiative to reduce imports and stimulate local production.

The NAB will provide a 50% subsidy, while Agribank will provide loans for input financing.

Potatoes rank among the most consumed products in Namibia.

Namibia and South Africa are going to scale up trade in the energy, agriculture, and horticulture sectors, among others.

The Deputy Executive Director in the Ministry of Industrialization and Trade, Michael Humavindu, has denied allegations emanating from South Africa that Namibia has banned fresh produce imports from the southern neighbour.

Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila is urging a shift away from dependence on imports in Namibia, emphasising the importance of supporting locally made products to stimulate economic growth.

Namibia imported goods worth N$ 4.8 billion from South Africa, while goods exported by Namibia amounted to a mere N$ 1.5 billion, resulting in a trade deficit of N$ 3.3 billion in November 2022.