China-Africa Symposium in Namibia focuses on trade and investment

The China-Africa Cooperation Symposium was held in Windhoek to explore strategies for deepening economic relations between China, Namibia, and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. Hosted by the Economic Association of Namibia (EAN) in partnership with the Chinese Embassy in Namibia and the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB), the event focused on translating shared development priorities into commercial outcomes.

Key discussions centered on the China-Africa Economic Partnership for Shared Development (CADEPA) and the benefits of China’s zero-tariff policy. Stakeholders examined how these frameworks could drive export diversification, industrialization, and technology transfer. Julia Muetudhana, acting CEO of the NIPDB, noted that China’s industrial and technological expertise offers valuable lessons for partnerships aimed at job creation and increasing productive capacity.

The symposium brought together government officials, private sector leaders, researchers, and diplomats to identify priority areas for joint research and institutional collaboration. The goal is to establish a pipeline of collaborative initiatives that align with Namibia’s national development plans for local value addition and industrial growth.