Namibia spends US$12.5M on potato imports from South Africa, launches local production scheme

NAMIBIA – Namibia has spent N$226.6 million (approx. US$12.5 million) on potato imports in 2025, with local production meeting only 34% of annual demand. The remaining 66%, valued at N$162 million (US$8.9 million), comes primarily from South Africa.

Potatoes remain the most consumed horticultural product in Namibia, with annual domestic demand estimated at 30,000 tonnes, valued at approximately N$246 million (US$13.6 million) in formal markets.

The highest quarterly value of potato imports was recorded in the first quarter of 2025 at N$76.3 million (US$4.2 million). Consequently, potato imports constitute a significant financial outflow for the Namibian economy.

The biggest challenges for Namibian agriculture include heavy reliance on South African imports, limited domestic production capacity, and inadequate access to certified seeds, fertilizers, and agrochemicals.

However, the Potato Value Chain Development Scheme addresses these gaps by providing subsidies, training, mentorship, market access support, and financing for primary production.

The government is supporting local farmers through the Potato Value Chain Development Scheme, which subsidizes start-up growers’ access to certified seed, fertilizers, and agrochemicals.

The programme also includes training, mentorship, market access support, and financing options for primary production.

The horticultural products that dominate Namibia’s trade relationship with South Africa include potatoes as the largest category, followed by apples, ranked second, with imports valued at N$123.7 million (US$6.8 million) in 2025, and bananas, ranked third, with quarterly imports ranging between N$10 million and N$15 million (US$552,000 to US$828,000).

Additionally, during the reporting period, Namibia’s total horticultural import bill reached N$1.7 billion (US$93.9 million), with South Africa accounting for 90% of horticultural imports.

For stakeholders in the fresh produce sector, Namibia’s situation highlights both the challenges of import dependence and the potential for strategic government intervention.

Furthermore, the Potato Value Chain Development Scheme provides a replicable model for countries seeking to reduce reliance on regional imports.

However, the dominance of South African supply chains means that any shift towards local production will require sustained policy support and infrastructure investment.

Ultimately, the banana trial project will serve as an early indicator of whether Namibia can diversify beyond potatoes into other high-value horticultural categories.

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.