Namibia's Wheat Import Bill Hits N$500 Million

Namibia's heavy reliance on imported wheat has cost the country nearly N$500 million during the second quarter of this year. According to the Namibia Statistics Agency, imports of wheat worth N$491.6 million between April and June this year have left a significant dent in the country's economy.

The total import bill for cereal grains rose by 59.9% to N$674.8 million compared to the same quarter in 2025, with Australia being the largest supplier of these grains. The country still depends heavily on wheat imports despite local crop production recording a significant growth of 46.8%, mainly driven by white maize production.

The increase in local crop production might seem positive but it is not enough to meet the demand for staple foods such as bread, flour, and pasta, which are mainly produced from imported wheat. The country's reliance on imports makes consumers vulnerable to changes in global prices and costs.