China is expanding its economic partnership with Namibia, targeting the southern African nation’s mining, energy, agriculture and infrastructure sectors as both countries seek deeper cooperation in critical resources and industrial development.

The agreements were announced during Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s seven-day state visit to Beijing, where she met Chinese President Xi Jinping to attract investment aimed at creating jobs and diversifying Namibia’s economy.

The two countries signed eight cooperation documents, including agreements focused on green minerals development and an economic partnership framework, strengthening China’s role in Namibia’s long-term growth plans.

“China is willing to deepen cooperation with Namibia in infrastructure construction, energy, minerals, agriculture, education, youth, and science and technology,” China’s state news agency Xinhua reported following the meeting.

Critical minerals drive China-Namibia partnership

A major focus of the agreements is Namibia’s growing importance in the global race for critical minerals, including uranium, lithium and rare earth elements used in clean energy technologies, electric vehicles and advanced manufacturing.

Both countries recognised the strategic value of these resources and agreed to strengthen cooperation in mineral exploration and development.

Namibia’s mining sector already plays a central role in the economy, with uranium exports among its most valuable commodities. China remains a major trading partner, purchasing about a quarter of Namibia’s total exports, according to the International Monetary Fund.

Of the $1.3 billion worth of Namibian goods purchased by China last year, uranium accounted for approximately 85%, highlighting Beijing’s interest in securing long-term access to strategic resources.

Oil discoveries raise Namibia’s global energy profile

Namibia is also emerging as one of Africa’s most promising energy markets after major offshore oil discoveries by global energy companies including Shell plc and TotalEnergies.

The discoveries, estimated at about 2.6 billion barrels of crude oil, could position Namibia as Africa’s fourth-largest oil producer by 2030 if production plans advance.

The country is also promoting a “green revolution” focused on renewable energy, agriculture and water resources, aligning with global demand for low-carbon investment opportunities.

Chinese companies expand footprint in Namibia

Chinese investment has already established a significant presence in Namibia. According to data from the American Enterprise Institute, Chinese companies have invested about $4.2 billion in Namibia, with almost all but $100 million directed toward the metals sector.

For President Nandi-Ndaitwah, who made China her first state visit outside Africa after taking office, attracting foreign investment remains central to efforts to boost employment, industrialisation and economic diversification.

The latest agreements underline Namibia’s growing position as a strategic destination for investors seeking access to Africa’s mineral wealth, energy resources and emerging green economy opportunities.