The Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) and the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SACCI) have launched the Namibia South Africa Business Council, creating a permanent private sector platform to strengthen trade, investment and cross-border business collaboration between the two countries.
The Council, officially launched at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg, builds on commitments made during the 2023 Namibia–South Africa Bi-National Commission, where both Heads of State agreed to establish a dedicated platform to translate political cooperation into measurable economic outcomes. The initiative aims to help businesses develop stronger commercial partnerships while unlocking new investment opportunities.
The Business Council will provide a structured forum for companies, industry associations and investors to identify joint ventures, address market access challenges and collaborate on cross-border issues such as logistics, non-tariff barriers and investment promotion. It is also expected to strengthen private sector participation in regional trade initiatives, including the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
A key focus of the Council is supporting micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by providing business matchmaking opportunities, market entry guidance and a platform to address challenges such as customs procedures, financing gaps and regulatory barriers. The initiative is intended to make regional trade more accessible to businesses of all sizes.
As Namibia and South Africa continue to deepen economic cooperation, the Council is expected to play an important role in advancing regional industrialisation, investment and trade across sectors including green hydrogen, mining, logistics, manufacturing, agriculture and tourism.
