As for the year 2020/2021, Namibia imported wheat to a total value of N$ 616 961 402 compared to N$ 62 729 908 that was marketed locally. In the same year, the country also imported white maize to a total value of N$ 489 475 144 compared to N$ 333 794 226 that was marketed locally. The NAB revealed this, during the media and networking familiarization event that was held in Windhoek.
During the event, it was highlighted that although there are currently 20 active registered processors/millers, the country remains a net importer of grain and grain products. Among the total tonnage of grains that was marketed for the year 2020/2021, 74% of them were imported and only 26 % were locally marketed. In monetary terms, a total value of N$ 1 109 609 046 was spent on importing grains, while local producers garnered a value of N$ 417 170 065. The NAB regularly ensures that close border is implemented during times of sufficient local supply, particularly white maize and pearl millet.
Gerson Kampungu, manager for research & policy development at the NAB revealed that the horticultural sector is growing and moving in a positive direction. This was clearly reflected due to the pattern of growth within the horticulture sector that has been observed over the past years. As for the year 2011/2012 a total value of N$ 95 095 704 horticulture products were marketed locally. That figure increased over the given years. As for the year 2020/2021, a total value of N$ 351 347 977 horticulture products were marketed locally.
Among the horticultural products that are being produced; potatoes, carrots, onions and tomatoes remains the top four vegetables that are purchased locally.
The NAB continues to create a regulating environment to ensure confidence in, acceptance and credibility of the inspection process thereby facilitating trade in agronomic and horticultural products.
The NAB has revealed that it continues to offer the following services to the agronomy and horticulture industry: registration of producers, traders and processors, permit issuance, production & market facilitation, storage and value addition support, product quality inspections, cold-chain management, border control, inland inspections, crop value chain research and Information & advisory services.