Namibia has a wide range of investment opportunities, the most attractive of which promise good returns on capital. Besides their attraction as profit generators, investors in these projects stand to gain from operating in one of Africa’s most stable and competitive environments. Namibia’s short, but impressive record includes, among others, a Country Risk rating in the B category of 40 points awarded by the London-based Economic Intelligence Unit.

This is the top score achieved in sub-Saharan Africa. Furthermore, the Africa Competitiveness Report of the World Economic Forum, produced by the Harvard University Institute for International Development, has recently awarded Namibia a fifth place ranking in the Competitiveness Index for the whole of Africa. Political stability, a low crime rate and workable labour relations round off the attractiveness of Namibia’s enabling environment.

The projects and opportunities listed here reinforce Namibia’s status as a growing economy. Major capital projects like the northern railway extension programme and the intended upgrading of the country’s main ports are set to substantially contribute to economic growth. Of particular significance is the number of infrastructure development programmes.

Namibia’s Foreign Investment Act of 1990 provides investors with guarantees in respect of investment security, non-discriminatory access to all sectors, repatriation of capital, access to foreign currency and international arbitration in case of dispute.

A range of highly competitive incentives are in place for investors. Foremost is the Export Processing Zones (EPZ) regime, which offers a totally tax and duty-free environment to export-oriented enterprises. To complement and diversify the EPZ regime, Namibia is currently drafting legislation for the establishment of an International Financial Services Industry.

Besides fiscal incentives, Namibia also offers manufacturers and exporters excellent market access. It is a WTO member and benefits from the the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) and the Cotonou Agreement, respectively. Namibia is strategically located as an ideal springboard into the regional markets of the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) and the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC).

The quick and efficient deep water harbour of Walvis Bay, a growth point and link to the major road transport corridors into neighbouring countries, including the Trans-Caprivi and Trans-Kalahari Highways, complete Namibia’s appeal as an investment and gateway location.