'Namibian beef in US market soon' - official
The US Ambassador to Namibia Thomas Daughton who met President Hage Geingob at State House on Wednesday has vowed to work toward strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries and pave the way for the introduction of Namibian beef in his country.
Addressing the media after a closed door meeting, Daughton said he had fruitful discussions with the Namibian leader on issues of common interest, including the energy sector in Namibia.
‘We discussed US programmes and activities in Namibia, including the issue of Namibia exporting beef to America’ said the American ambassador.
The American diplomat, who took up his post in October 2014, noted that although it was a long process of negotiations, it is now nearing conclusion in terms of obtaining approval for Namibia to export beef to America.
The permanent secretary in the Ministry of Industrialisation, Trade and SME Development Malan Lindeque earlier told media that Namibia is hoping to benefit from the new African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) which is expected to be signed this year with the United State government.
‘We are now in the final regulatory stage of obtaining clearance to export beef to the USA, thus the potential remains high to benefit from AGOA if it is extended’, he was quoted as saying by The Namibian on Wednesday.
AGOA, which was approved by the US Congress in May 2000, seeks to improve economic relations between the US and Africa.