Namibia signs grape export deal with China

Namibia's agriculture ministry and the general administration of customs of China have signed a protocol establishing the phytosanitary requirements for the export of fresh table grapes from Namibia to China.

The protocol, signed on 10 July, marks a significant step in bilateral trade relations by opening the Chinese market to Namibian grape producers while ensuring compliance with China's phytosanitary, health and safety requirements.

The agreement also commits both countries to continued cooperation in strengthening agricultural trade and maintaining phytosanitary standards.

"The agreement stipulates that all fresh table grapes exported to China must be free of quarantine pests of concern and soil contamination," agriculture ministry deputy director for public relations and information services Romeo Muyunda said.

The agreement outlines comprehensive measures covering orchard management, the registration of orchards, packing houses and cold-treatment facilities, integrated pest management, packaging and traceability, as well as pre-export and entry inspections.

Under the agreement, the ministry will oversee the registration of production sites and quality management systems, while China's customs authorities will verify compliance when consignments arrive.

Key provisions include the mandatory registration and approval of all relevant facilities, rigorous pest monitoring, compliance with international standards and specific labelling requirements for export consignments.

"The agreement takes effect immediately upon signature and will remain in force for three years, with provision for automatic renewal and amendments by mutual consent," Muyunda said.