LUANDA – President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has announced that the Namibian government is finalising a major trade and investment law aimed at strengthening the country’s economic appeal to both domestic and international investors.
Speaking during the Invest in Namibia session at the U.S.- Africa Business Summit in Luanda, Angola, the President said the Namibia Investment Promotion and Facilitation Bill is near completion and will play a vital role in creating a more conducive and predictable environment for doing business in Namibia.
“The Ministry of International Relations and Trade is working hard to finalise the Namibia Investment Promotion and Facilitation Bill. This law should create an improved enabling environment to attract, retain, and facilitate both domestic and foreign investment in our country,” said President Nandi- Ndaitwah.
The announcement comes as part of the President’s broader restructuring of key government offices since assuming office on March 21 this year.
The Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB) has now officially been moved under the Ministry of International Relations and Trade (MIRT)—a shift that government and business leaders say will better align investment and foreign policy efforts.
Realignment
In a public statement issued shortly after the President’s speech, the NIPDB welcomed the institutional realignment, saying it signals a new chapter for Namibia’s investment strategy.
“This strategic alignment is part of a broader effort to streamline the government’s economic development agenda and enhance coordination across key institutions that drive investment, trade, and inclusive growth,” the NIPDB said.
Despite this shift, the board affirmed that its leadership and core operational priorities remain unchanged. It reiterated its mission to promote Namibia as a competitive investment destination and to address national challenges such as unemployment, inequality and poverty.
“We remain steadfast in our mission to serve Namibia and contribute towards solving our national challenges,” the NIPDB said.
Tax incentives
While the Bill is still being finalised, President Nandi-Ndaitwah revealed that concrete measures have already been introduced to improve Namibia’s investment climate. These include tax incentives aimed at making the country more attractive to potential investors.
“For example, the corporate tax is reduced from 32% to 30%, effective from the 2025-26 financial year. Looking ahead, we are considering a further corporate tax reduction to 28% in the 2026- 27 financial year,” the President announced.
She also noted that Namibia currently offers generous capital allowances across various sectors, which are intended to support the expansion of new and existing investments.
Open for business
In her address, President Nandi- Ndaitwah struck a clear and confident tone, declaring that Namibia is open for business and ready to partner with investors who are committed to long-term development.
“We are not only looking for investors. We welcome investors who are ready to work with us to meet the goals set out for the Namibian people, while you are making your profits,” she said. “Do not hesitate to come to Namibia. We are ready to facilitate your investment.”
She emphasised that the Invest in Namibia session was not merely a promotional event but an opportunity to build meaningful partnerships between government and the private sector.
“The purpose of this event is to provide an opportunity for the Namibian government and the private sector to appreciate each other’s interests in the areas of trade and investment,” she said.
Oil and gas
This sector placed under the Office of the President, she said, is still new to Namibia and must be carefully managed to ensure that the country harnesses its full potential responsibly and strategically.
“It is a new industry, and it will be managed in such a manner that harnesses the full potential of the sector,” she stated.
This announcement comes amid rising global interest in Namibia’s oil and gas prospects, as well as its growing reputation as a green hydrogen hub and a source of critical minerals.
She said that with the upcoming Investment Promotion and Facilitation Bill and recent structural changes, Namibia is positioning itself for what many observers are calling a turning point in its economic and investment journey.
“This law will enable a predictable framework that governs both domestic and foreign investments,” the NIPDB stressed. “It is a critical instrument that will enhance Namibia’s competitiveness as an investment destination.”
As Namibia takes centre stage at one of Africa’s most influential business summits, President Nandi-Ndaitwah told the international community that Namibia is serious about investment, serious about reform, and serious about inclusive economic growth.