Namibia’s diamond sector has contributed more than N$15 billion in value-added tax (VAT) over the past five years, reinforcing its position as a key source of government revenue.
Offshore diamond mining firm Debmarine Namibia accounted for the bulk of these payments, earning recognition from the Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRA) as the country’s top VAT contributor.
NamRA Commissioner Sam Shivute said the scale of contributions reflects both the strength of the sector and the importance of tax compliance in supporting national development.
“These contributions are not just figures; they represent schools built, hospitals maintained and infrastructure developed,” Shivute said.
The diamond sector’s performance comes as Namibia collected approximately N$407 billion in total revenue over the past five years, with a net contribution of about N$358 billion.
Shivute said this represents overall revenue growth of 53.1% since the establishment of NamRA.
The sustained VAT contributions from the diamond industry point to a stable production environment within the offshore segment, supported by consistent output and ongoing investment.
“The contribution levels we are seeing from the diamond sector are significant and speak to its continued relevance in the economy,” he said.
The performance is particularly notable against the backdrop of Namibia’s national budget, estimated at around N$100 billion, which is largely funded through tax revenue.
While the diamond sector leads in VAT contributions, other mining segments have also recorded strong performances across different tax categories.
Gold producer B2Gold Namibia was the top contributor to corporate income tax, paying N$3.8 billion in 2025.
Uranium producers Swakop Uranium and Rössing Uranium ranked among the leading domestic taxpayers, placing second and third runner-up respectively.
“The level of contribution from these companies shows the scale at which the mining sector supports government revenue and national development,” Shivute said.
“These are not just corporate achievements; they translate directly into public services, infrastructure development and economic stability,” he added.
Outside mining, other sectors recorded smaller contributions. Namibia Breweries Limited was recognised as the top contributor in customs and excise.
“Our role is to ensure that those who are compliant are recognised, while we continue to enforce the law where necessary,” Shivute said
