Editor’s note: This article represents the author’s views and not necessarily those of CGTN.
Namibian President Netumbo Nandi‑Ndaitwah is making her first state visit to China from July 5 to 11, 2026. She began her trip in Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong Province, aiming to open a new chapter in bilateral cooperation between Namibia and China.
The agenda includes strengthening cooperation in mining, renewable energy, agriculture, infrastructure, digital innovation, health, manufacturing, green hydrogen, tourism, and mineral industrial transformation. As the world’s third‑largest uranium producer, Namibia seeks to reduce raw mineral exports and focus on local processing, drawing on China’s experience to achieve this major goal.
China already plays a key role in Namibia’s mining sector through significant investments. It is ready to support the establishment of industrial chains and technology transfer. Both sides aim to advance the processing of critical minerals such as cobalt, copper, rare earths, and uranium. The Namibian president hopes to secure tangible results in this strategic sector during her visit.
In renewable energy, cooperation has already yielded notable achievements. A 100‑megawatt solar photovoltaic plant built by two Chinese companies is Namibia’s largest ongoing renewable energy project. Once operational, it will generate 300 million kWh, covering nearly one‑tenth of Namibia’s electricity needs.
Trade relations are also a priority. China is Namibia’s top trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching USD 2.5 billion in 2025, up 10.3% year‑on‑year. In September 2024, Namibian mutton and goat meat were approved for export to China. Since December 2024, Namibia has benefited from zero‑tariff treatment, giving its products easier access to the vast Chinese market. In just the first four months of 2026, trade flows reached NAD 14.79 billion (about USD 920 million). Namibia mainly imports manufactured goods, machinery, and industrial equipment from China.
To expand industrial cooperation, a high‑level China–Namibia trade and investment conference will be held during the state visit, according to APA News. Chinese and Namibian entrepreneurs will deepen exchanges and explore new opportunities. Exhibitions and B2B meetings will showcase Namibian products and attract investors.
President Nandi‑Ndaitwah will also visit companies to observe their expertise and meet with local authorities. Pragmatic cooperation between China and Namibia continues to turn resource advantages into engines of development, transforming cooperation outcomes into public well‑being, and injecting new momentum into the shared growth of both nations. The guiding principle of this state visit is renewed trust and win‑win cooperation between China and Namibia.
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