Namibia eyes China amid global trade shifts

In recent developments, the United States has imposed new tariffs on imports from various countries, including Namibia. This shift in global trade policy has added a layer of uncertainty for developing nations that rely on international trade for economic growth. At this critical juncture, it is imperative for Namibia—and the broader African continent—to reconsider their global partnerships and seek stable, long- term relationships with reliable allies. Among these, China stands out as a key partner offering both political and economic opportunities, with its unwavering commitment to peaceful coexistence and free trade.Understanding Tariffs and Their Impact on Developing NationsTariffs are taxes imposed by governments on imported goods and services, making them more expensive for consumers and businesses in the importing country. For countries like Namibia, whose economies are often heavily reliant on exports, tariffs can significantly reduce access to crucial markets. When a country like the United States imposes tariffs on Namibian goods, it means that Namibian products—such as minerals, agricultural goods, and other exports—become more expensive for American consumers and businesses toconsider buying. This can result in reduced demand for these goods, ultimately affecting the income and growth of the economy. In contrast, China, with its open-door policy and belief in free trade, offers a different model—one that can significantly benefit Namibia in these challenging times.China as a Political and Economic Anchor in an Uncertain Global OrderChina’s economic growth has been accompanied by an assertive, yet pragmatic, foreign policy that challenges the status quo of global governance. In international trade forums such as the World Trade Organisation (WTO), China consistently advocates for the interests of developing economies, pushing for reforms that promote fairer trade practices and more inclusive global economic governance. This is an essential advantage for Namibia as it seeks to assert its own voice in multilateral trade negotiations. Moreover, China’s non-interference policy in Africa and the rest of the world offers Namibia the autonomy to pursue its development agenda without external political pressure. In a world where Western powers oftentie economic aid to political alignment, China’s model of development cooperation offers Namibia the freedom to navigate its political economy according to its own priorities. This relationship, grounded in mutual respect for sovereignty, is invaluable in a rapidly shifting global landscape marked by rising protectionism and trade wars.A Model for Developing EconomiesAt the core of China’s foreign economic policy lies the concept of "mutual benefit" underpinned by the principles of peaceful coexistence and non-interference in the internal affairs of sovereign states. Unlike the protectionist tendencies displayed by some Western economies, China has maintained a consistent approach to free trade and investment, especially within the African continent. This philosophy aligns seamlessly with Namibia's own development objectives: economic diversification, industrialization, and poverty alleviationthrough sustainable growth.*Ndatulumukwa Haikali is an economist, founder of Youth in Agriculture Organisation and a board chairperson of Namibia-China Business Agency.**This opinion piece has been shortened.

Namibia eyes China amid global trade shifts

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