In Namibia, the procurement of health products in the public sector is governed by the Public Procurement Act of 2015, which oversees the acquisition of goods, works, and services. International companies seeking tenders in Namibia are encouraged to collaborate with local bidders throughout the procurement contract's execution.
The procurement of medical products, including medicines and vaccinations, follows a competitive approach, which can involve various methods:
Direct procurement from the producer.
Using third-party suppliers for medicines.
Restricted procedures for specific items.
Procurement through international organizations.
International companies aiming to operate in Namibia as medical product distributors or manufacturers can pursue several avenues:
Establishing a local company with 49% foreign ownership and 51% Namibian ownership.
Registering with the Ministry of Industrialisation and Trade and obtaining a pharmaceutical license from the Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS) and the Health Professional Council of Namibia.
Partnering with a local company possessing the necessary pharmaceutical import company license.
Understanding these regulations and opportunities is essential for international companies looking to engage in the procurement and distribution of health products in Namibia.