Charcoal exports generate N$700m despite challenges

It is estimated that charcoal exports generated more than N$700 million last year. Even though the industry experienced a challenging time in 2021, the market demand for Namibian charcoal is increasing year-on-year, with more farmers turning to charcoal production to secure a better income.This is according to the Namibian Agricultural Union’s (NAU) 2020/2021 annual report.The Namibia Charcoal Association (NCA) said in many areas, farmers cannot rely on livestock and general farming produce any more and have turned to charcoal to fill the gaps in their budget.“Many farmers have reported that without charcoal income, they would no longer be able to keep their farms.”The NCA added that it reported a growth in membership as many new entrants into the charcoal industry have seen the importance of working closely with the association to support them. Membership figures grew by 58 members in 2021, bringing the total to 1 405.“We also had to suspend members,” the association said, adding that it documented record exports during May, June and July last year.“This came to a severe halt when unrest unfolded in South Africa and harbours were severely affected,” the NCA said.Charcoal not to blameAn estimated 210 000 tonnes of charcoal were exported last year, of which the majority went to Europe and the Middle East, while 40% went to South Africa.“The exports to Europe, the Middle East and other international countries amounted to N$550 million; to SA, the export value is calculated at N$160 million,” the association said.It added that during the dry winter months last year, many veld fires were recorded in Namibia.“Naturally, charcoal was immediately blamed for this. We can safely report that most fires were not caused by charcoal burning on farms.”“Despite all the challenges - wet charcoal, container shortages, unrest in South Africa, poaching and veld fires - the industry weathered the storm and we are looking forward to a good 2022, where new markets have opened for Namibia, giving more export opportunities to new entrants into the market.”It, however, added that the industry will have to adopt a more disciplined approach and said it is confident that the sector will see accelerated growth and provide valuable income to many more Namibians.ellanie@namibiansun.com

Charcoal exports generate N$700m despite challenges

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Namibian Sun 2025-05-07

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Charcoal exports generate N$700m despite challenges

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Namibian Sun 2025-05-07

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