Namibia continues to rely heavily on imported potatoes, with the country sourcing approximately 66% of domestic demand from South Africa during 2025 despite ongoing efforts to expand local production.

According to the Agriculture and Fishing Indicators Bulletin compiled by the Namibia Statistics Agency, Namibia spent around N$226.6 million (US$12.5 million) on potato imports during 2025, making potatoes the country’s largest imported horticultural product.

The report showed that Namibian consumers spent an average of about N$56 million per quarter on potato imports through wholesalers, retailers and private buyers, with most supplies originating from South Africa.

The highest import levels were recorded during the first quarter of 2025, when potato imports reached approximately N$76.3 million, while the third quarter recorded the lowest import value at N$38.2 million.

Potatoes remain Namibia’s most widely consumed horticultural crop, with annual domestic demand estimated at around 30,000 tonnes valued at roughly N$246 million within the formal market system.

However, local production currently supplies only about 34% of national demand. Domestic growers produced approximately 8,203 tonnes during the year, valued at around N$84 million, leaving a supply gap of more than 21,000 tonnes that continues to be filled largely through imports.

The figures highlight the ongoing dependence of several Southern African countries on regional agricultural trade, particularly imports from South Africa’s relatively advanced horticultural sector.

To reduce import dependence, Namibia continues to expand support for local potato farming through its Potato Value Chain Development Scheme (PVCDS), which aims to strengthen domestic production capacity.

The programme provides subsidy support for certified seed, fertilisers and agrochemicals while also offering mentorship, technical training, financing support and market access assistance to emerging growers.

Agricultural officials believe improving local potato production could help strengthen food security, reduce import costs and create new agribusiness opportunities within the country.