The need to develop a diversified and robust manufacturing sector is a key agenda in government efforts to identify potential growth areas beyond the exploitation of its mineral wealth, which has been central to its transformation into a middle-income country, but which at the same time makes it susceptible to the vagaries of a fickle global economic order.
Opportunities presented by the manufacturing sector cover a wide array of sectors such as food and beverages, textiles and garments, jewelry making, and metal and metal products amongst others. At a national level, these opportunities are presented through the country’s high import bill, which has led the government to develop complementary policies (Economic Diversification Drive) to promote the sector. Below are some of the salient features of the manufacturing sector in Botswana:
- Import Bill: P61.9 Bln as of 2012. (For November 2013 – Fuel 15.6%, Machinery & Electrical equipment 14.9%, Food, Beverages & Tobacco Chemicals & Rubber Products at 12.9% respectively, Diamonds – 12.8%, vehicle & transport equipment – 11%, Metal & Metal products 5.9%) SB, 2014
- Economic Diversification Drive
- Beneficiation of Raw materials (beef, leather, minerals, glass manufacturing)
- Textile Industry Strategy has been developed to upgrade the garments industry
- Economic efficiency and international competitiveness
- Special Economic Zones
- Production of goods and services for export
- Raw materials in abundance
Opportunities in this Sector
See below for the opportunities in this Sector across various districts in Botswana.
There is a number of opportunities in the Southern Region as shown in the “Investment Opportunities under Group 4 Study Area” table attached. Language
English
North-East District
Opportunities in the Northeast Region are shown in the table attached. Language
English
Southern Kgalagadi
The following are the High priority investment areas in the Southern District. Language
English
Kgalagadi
The following are the High priority investment areas in the Kgalagadi District. Language
English
Charles Hill
See more on Investment opportunities in the Charles Hill sub-district.Language
English
Gantsi
See what are the High priority investment areas in the Gantsi District. Language
English
Okavango
See what are the Investment opportunities in the Okavango sub-district.Language
English
North West
View the High priority Investment Areas in the North West District. Language
English
What can I manufacture in Botswana?
Manufacturing / Industry
- Downstream manufacturing using locally available raw materials and by-products e.g. cattle hide from the beef industry.
- Food can manufacturing.
- Tableware and sanitary ware manufacturing.
- Components assembly for various items, such as telephones, personal computers, etc.
What is the biggest company in Botswana?
1) Debswana Diamond Company
Debswana is a major contributor to the national economy of Botswana and national GDP, foreign exchange earnings and government revenue. It is one of the largest private sector employers, with over 5200 employees.
What are the major industries in Botswana?
Botswana’s economy is mostly dependent on diamond mining. Diamond mining contributes to 50% of the government revenue mainly through its 50:50 joint venture with De Beers in the Debswana Diamond Company.
How do I start a manufacturer?
How to Start a Manufacturing Business in 7 Steps
- Do market research.
- Determine your niche and business idea.
- Pick a name and create a logo.
- Write a business plan.
- Fund your manufacturing business.
- Start making product.
- Market your manufacturing business.
What is in demand in Botswana?
The pandemic has seen an increase in demand for online services and deliveries.
profitable business ideas
- Consulting services.
- Online tutoring.
- Bookkeeping services.
- Courier/delivery service.
- Virtual assistant.
- Cleaning services.
- Home care services.