Namibia–EU Business forum cements EU as one of Namibia’s most important and diversified trading partners creating jobs for Namibians

Held under the theme "Towards Stronger, Greener and More Diversified Economies: Catalyzing Business and Trade Opportunities between the EU and Namibia," the Forum takes place from 11-13 May 2026 and brings together more than 400 participants, including government leaders, policymakers, investors, private sector, development finance institutions, and members of the diplomatic corps from Namibia, and the European Union.

The opening session highlighted the shared commitment of Namibia and the European Union to deepen cooperation in green industrialisation, renewable energy, critical raw materials, logistics, sustainable trade, and private sector development. The Forum aims to promote inclusive growth, facilitate investment, and strengthen business-to-business and business-to-government partnerships. Since the launch of the EU-Namibia Strategic Partnership on Green Hydrogen and Critical Raw Materials in 2022, cooperation has moved from vision to implementation, supporting Namibia's ambition to become a green industrial and regional logistics hub.

In her remarks, Commissioner Roswall underscored the importance of the EU-Namibia partnership and growing economic ties between the two regions: "In a world marked by geopolitical tensions, climate pressure and economic fragmentation, the EU and Namibia are demonstrating that equal and mutually beneficial partnerships can deliver concrete results. Together, we are moving beyond extractive models of the past to build cleaner industries, more resilient supply chains, and create jobs, skills and long-term prosperity on both continents," said Commissioner Roswall.

The European Union remains Africa's largest trading and investment partner, with annual trade exceeding €350 billion and more than €300 billion in European investment across Afrika. As Namibia and the EU celebrate 10 years of the EU-SADC Economic Partnership Agreement, bilateral trade reached N$17.6 billion in 2025, increasingly supporting local value addition and employment across sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, charcoal, beef processing, table grapes, and locally beneficiated minerals. Namibia's exports in goods to the EU are estimated to support more than 46,000 jobs nationwide.

Throughout the three-day programme, participants will engage in high-level policy discussions, sector-focused panels, investment dialogues, exhibitions, and dedicated business matchmaking sessions aimed at unlocking new commercial opportunities and fostering sustainable partnerships. The Forum also features a Craft Village showcasing Namibian entrepreneurs and creatives, promoting local talent and cultural industries.

The Forum is expected to strengthen the EU-Namibia strategic partnership, advance green industrial development, promote innovation and economic diversification, and position Namibia as a leading hub for sustainable investment and industrial development in Africa.