Feature: Namibian youth cultivate entrepreneurship with imported Chinese commodities

Trading imported Chinese retail commodities has become a popular means for Namibian youth to experiment with doing business and cultivate an entrepreneurship mindset.

Selma Sheetekela, aged 25, has been selling clothes, bags, shoes and even extension hair, imported from China since May 2015.

With the local demand to achieve a unique and exclusive look on a steady rise, she saw an opportunity and decided to fill the gap.

For her, business started at first try, when a friend sent her items to test the market.

"My friend went for studies in China and saw the need to send a few items to test the market prospects at home. The items 'flew off the shelf.' We have not looked back since," she said.

She is not alone. The popularity of Chinese goods drove Maria Gases into selling made-in-China clothes, accessories and bags, amongst others. "I want to diversify my income," said Gases.

With competition growing, however, the challenges now are how to offer unique, affordable but quality clothing and trending fashion accessories.

"What we pursue is fashion -- it presents an opportunity for income generation," Gases said. So far, business has been lucrative, and the young businesswomen are happy for having built a pool of loyal clients.

Although business is good, the consensus among them is that keep learning and familiarizing themselves with up-to-date market knowledge is a must.

"One needs to be well-versed in international and country trade rules, especially tax rules, for customs to get clearance," said Sheetekela.

One also needs to do thorough research. "You need to know what you want to import. It's important to do a market survey and have good and reliable suppliers back in China," added Gases.

While each trader has their own approach of doing business, "I make sure I import quality products. That's how your customers keep coming back," said Sheetekela.

"You do not want to receive poor quality products or order something that would be never delivered. I am lucky my friend is based in China," Sheetekela added.

Besides, the traders have turned to informative online sessions. "One needs to explore different avenues on how to get into the market. I have to learn on maximizing profit, minimizing headaches -- thanks to online session on this industry and business," said Sheetekela.

To spread the word about their businesses, social media is also proving to be effective.

"I post the items on Facebook, WhatsApp groups and other online platforms. More public exposure definitely boosts sales," said Gases.

Economic pundits have welcomed the trend. Local economist Frans Uusiku said these enterprising youth's business can go beyond clothes and shoes. "There is significant scope for them to extend their services to a broader business community," Uusiku said.

For Sheetekela and Gases, the first sweet taste of success will encourage them to forge ahead, with more optimism and passion.

"I wish to strengthen my relations with my Chinese business partners. The sky is the limit," said Sheetekela. Enditem