For Decades, Namibia has been a key player in exporting agricultural products, particularly beef, to the European Union (EU) market.
In 2024, Namibia exported approximately 35 000 tonnes of beef worth around €290 million (approximately N$5.7 billion), marking a steady increase from previous years.
This makes the EU one of Namibia’s largest trading partners in the agricultural sector.
The trade has significantly contributed to the Namibian economy, providing jobs and supporting livelihoods in the agricultural sector.
However, to maintain this valuable export relationship, Namibia must ensure it upholds international standards, particularly in the areas of labour laws, minimum wages and human rights.
Failure to comply could jeopardise the country’s position in the EU market.
CONDITIONS AND COMPLIANCE
EU regulations mandate that countries exporting agricultural goods must adhere to laws concerning fair labour practices, safe working environments and child labour.
Unfortunately, there are concerns that Namibia’s agricultural sector falls short on these standards, which could threaten access to the EU market in the future.
For instance, farm workers earning a low minimum wage.
A living wage, considered necessary for a basic standard of living, would be closer to N$3 000 a month.
There are also reports of child labour in Namibia’s agricultural sector, particularly in rural areas.
This is a clear violation of international human rights standards on child labour.
HEALTH AND SAFETY
The EU has a robust system to monitor the compliance of countries that export to its market.
This includes ensuring that goods, especially agricultural products, are produced under fair labour conditions.
The European Commission regularly conducts audits and inspections to ensure that exporting countries follow its regulations.
In 2023, the EU conducted more than 50 inspections in Namibia’s agricultural sector and findings indicated that some Namibian exports did not fully meet EU health and safety standards, particularly in meat processing plants.
This serves as a reminder that non-compliance could risk trade relationships. If Namibia fails to uphold the necessary standards, the EU could decide to reduce or even halt imports of Namibian agricultural products.
In 2021, the EU rejected several shipments of fish from Namibia because of non-compliance with health and safety standards, a stark reminder of the consequences of failing to meet EU regulations.
PROACTIVE MEASURES
It is imperative that Namibia takes proactive measures to ensure its agricultural sector meets international labour and human rights standards.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry, along with the Meat Board of Namibia, must collaborate to ensure that working conditions are improved and that no child is deprived of their right to education.
These agencies must work tirelessly to enforce regulations, conduct regular inspections and ensure that agricultural practices align with international norms.
Employers in the agricultural sector must take responsibility for providing fair wages and ensuring a safe working environment for all employees.
This will not only help safeguard Namibia’s standing in the global market but also improve the lives of workers who contribute to the country’s agricultural success.
In fact, studies by the Food and Agricultural Organisation suggest that countries adhering to international labour standards see a 15%-20% increase in agricultural productivity, which would further enhance Namibia’s competitiveness in the EU market.
ECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS
Namibia’s agricultural exports, especially beef, are highly sought after because of their quality.
However, the reputation of the country’s agricultural sector depends heavily on its ability to meet international standards.
If Namibia fails to maintain these standards, it risks losing access to this important market, which would have severe economic consequences.
Any reduction in exports could lead to significant losses in revenue and job opportunities.
In fact, a good percentage of Namibia’s total agricultural export revenue comes from the EU, highlighting the economic stakes of continued compliance.
By upholding international standards, Namibia will not only secure its position in the EU market but also create a more sustainable and fair agricultural industry that benefits all stakeholders.
With the right commitment and action, Namibia can continue to be a trusted partner in the global agricultural market while improving the lives of its workers and protecting human rights.
- Gideon Kapuka is a researcher, writer and business consultant; gideonkapuka5@gmail.com
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