The infrastructure in Namibia is relatively well developed. Roads are well maintained and the railway, harbour and airway services function effectively.
The telecommunications network of Namibia is one of the most modern and efficient in Africa. Fibre-optic cabling covers the whole country, thus ensuring digital connections. Rural sites are serviced by satellite (VSAT) technology. Internet access is available countrywide. The country has relatively wide network of local bank branches allowing for functional banking services. ATMs are readily available through out the country, and debit as well as credit cards can be used widely. Most banks offer Internet banking services.
Namibia induces foreign investments by offering incentives for investors and by establishing free processing zones, which practically exempt the foreign companies from all taxes and customs duties. Export Processing Zones (EPZ) have been developed particularly for companies specialised in export. Companies with the EPZ-status can function in free processing zones, in which cheap rents, or possibilities to build an own production plant are available. These companies are also exempted from Company, Value Added and Stamp taxes. In addition, the import of the machinery and materials related to the production is tax-free.
The most important law regulating foreign investments is the Foreign Investment Act. It provides an equal treatment for both foreign and domestic investments. This Act includes also the investment protection, and an openness to invest in all sectors of the economy. The only exception is the exploitation of natural resources; the state has a right to favour Namibian investments. In 2003 about 2 billion Namibian dollars entered the country in foreign investments. Most of the direct foreign investments are found in the free processing zones.
Finding educated workforce can be problematic for investors. However, the Government appropriates tax-exemptions and freedoms for companies that educate their workforce.
Social services, such as health care and education, are relatively good.
The Embassy provides prestige services to companies and other actors and participates if possible in seminars, meetings and discussions. The representation of the Chargé d' Affaires is additionally targeted towards the representatives of the Namibian private sector.
