Namibia has taken a major step to strengthen its livestock sector by reducing export levies on skins and hides. This new decision came into effect on May 1, with the official announcement made by the Ministry of Finance earlier this week.

The export tax on raw skins and hides has been brought down sharply from 60% to just 15%. For pickled skins, the levy has dropped from 15% to 10%.

According to the Finance Ministry’s spokesperson, this change is part of the government’s bigger plan to promote industrial growth within the country.

The goal is to help farmers earn better, support local businesses, and make Namibia’s livestock products more competitive in international markets.

“The balanced approach ensures the availability of skins and hides for local value-addition while also allowing producers to export surplus production”

Wilson Shikoto, Spokesman, Ministry of Finance, Namibia

Shikoto also mentioned that these policy updates are meant to support market flexibility, help producers earn more revenue, and open up more job opportunities both in cities and rural areas.