Directorate of Commerce

 

The core function of the Directorate of Commerce is to ensure the development of a vibrant and competitive domestic economy and market conditions.
This function entails the following:

  • Formulation and administration of laws and policies geared towards creating and enhancing an environment conducive for the effective establishment and operation of businesses and commercial activities in the country;
  •  Promotion and protection of consumer rights through regular inspections and enforcement of product standards, weights and measures at retail levels as well as consumer awareness campaigns;
  •  Promotion and enhancement of nationally and internationally competitive industrial and product quality and standards at factory levels (Standards Act, 2005);
  •  Promotion of fair competition in the domestic market (Competition Act, 2003);
  •  Promotion and registration of innovations, inventions and technology transfer – copyrights, patents, trademarks and designs - for the enhancement of industrial capacity and productivity.
  •  Promote efficient and effective registration of business and intellectual property in Namibia (Business and Intellectual Property Authority Act, 2016).

  •  To make provision concerning the marking of merchandise and of coverings in or with merchandise is sold and the use of certain words and emblems in connection with business (Merchandise Act, 1941).