NamRA delegation visits trade ministry

A delegation from the Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRA) paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Industrialisation and Trade, Lucia Iipumbu on Monday, 4 July 2022. The delegation led by its Commissioner, Sam Shivute, shared its vision and objectives relevant to the MIT and enhancement of trade facilitation in Namibia. Addressing the four-member delegation, Iipumbu said the visit sets pace for future engagements and the work of both the ministry and agency. Iipumbu while addressing the delegation stressed the mainstreaming and streamlining of systems and procedures by both institutions which are currently operating in silos, to be more flexible and have shorter turnaround times.

Among the points of discussion was the operationalisation of one-stop-border posts with issues such as reducing congestion at borders being addressed and prioritization of harmonizing the operational hours at the border posts. The smuggling of fuel into the country, and fast-tracking of the automotive industry and reduction of imports of vehicles was also highlighted during the meeting. The Minister also stressed urgency to assist Namibian entrepreneurs, particularly in the poultry industry who are no longer able to compete with their foreign counterparts who are offering cheaper products to consumers. She further indicated that the Ministry had received numerous complaints related to the quality of imported goods, and labour and compliance issues adding that the Ministry should strengthen its inspection mandate at business premises.

The MIT has a mandate to accelerate economic growth and reduce income inequality. The ministry also facilitates the promotion of growth and development of the economy through the formulation and implementation of appropriate policies to attract investment, increase trade, develop and expand the country’s industrial base. The MIT is the first ministry to receive a courtesy visit by the Agency since its inception in 2021.