MEBARANE — The Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Trade has released its annual report for the 2024/25 fiscal year, indicating robust expansion across multiple sectors. Presenting the report at a press briefing, Minister for Commerce, Industry, and Trade, Mnangko Kumota highlighted a surge in new business registrations, strengthened trade partnerships, and notable progress in e-commerce.

Record Business Registrations

According to the ministry’s data, the total number of registered entities has risen sharply, underscoring growing investor confidence and entrepreneurial activity. Key statistics include:

• Private Companies: 3,945
• Non-Profit Organizations: 1,346
• Partnerships: 289
• Foreign Companies: 102
• Public Companies: 2
• Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): 190
• Trusts: 345

Minister Kumota attributed the positive trend to a series of pro-business reforms introduced in the past year, including streamlined application procedures and reduced administrative fees. “We’ve created an environment where aspiring entrepreneurs can register their businesses with ease, and foreign investors can set up operations more quickly,” he noted.

MSME Expansion and Industrial Development

The report also shows substantial growth in the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector. Access to microfinance, digital payment solutions, and government-backed mentorship programs have collectively fueled this upward trajectory. Several new industrial parks, such as those in Nguvana, have attracted both domestic and foreign companies looking to capitalize on tax incentives and upgraded infrastructure.

Meanwhile, the aggregator sector—encompassing logistics, wholesale distribution, and digital platforms—has seen a surge in demand, partly driven by the expanding e-commerce ecosystem. Analysts expect aggregator services to remain a critical link between producers, retailers, and consumers as online marketplaces continue to flourish.

E-Commerce on the Rise

E-commerce platforms have emerged as a key growth engine, benefiting from increased internet penetration and evolving consumer preferences. In response, the Ministry has launched a pilot program offering incentives for digital startups, including subsidized data packages and access to technical training. Early indicators suggest these measures have already lowered entry barriers and stimulated innovation in online retail.

Trademark Registrations and Intellectual Property

On the intellectual property front, the Ministry’s report shows a rise in trademark applications—3,416 new filings in 2024 alone—led primarily by companies in the beverage and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sectors. Collaboration with the Trademark and Intellectual Property Office has accelerated approval timelines, ensuring businesses can protect and commercialize their brands more efficiently.

Looking Ahead

With the Commerce, Enterprise, and Economic Development (CEED) Council rolling out new training programs and policy frameworks, local entrepreneurs can expect continued support in areas such as product development, export strategies, and digital marketing. The Ministry is also actively engaging with regional trade blocs, including the African Free Trade Agreement (AFTA), to secure favorable terms for local producers seeking to enter international markets.

“Our focus is on creating sustainable, inclusive growth that benefits everyone—from small-scale artisans to large multinational corporations,” Minister Kumota emphasized. “By strengthening our regulatory environment, expanding trade partnerships, and investing in modern infrastructure, we’re laying a strong foundation for long-term economic prosperity.”

Industry experts remain optimistic, suggesting that these reforms, coupled with ongoing technological advancements, position the country for continued expansion. As global economic conditions stabilize, the Ministry’s proactive approach may well help local businesses tap into new markets and fuel a cycle of innovation and job creation.

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