WINDHOEK: The Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB) on Tuesday launched a guide for the fatty oil industry to assist and empower local micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in accessing international markets. NIPDB executive director for talent, innovation and productivity, Julia Muetudhana, said that the Namibia Fatty Oils Export for MSMEs guide offers new entrants insights and strategies that can elevate their cosmetics exports. 'Namibian fatty oils have successfully carved out a significant market niche in Europe, owing to their exceptional quality and diverse applications. Renowned for their purity and unique composition, fatty oils, such as marula and manketti, have gained popularity in the European cosmetic and skincare industry,' Muetudhana said during the launch on Tuesday. 'Through this export guide, we aim to empower MSMEs within the cosmetics sector with key insights to penetrate the European market. Ultimately, we would like to see you selling your products in major m arkets across Europe and creating sustainable employment opportunities for Namibians,' she added. The guide primarily focuses on marula oil, also known for its nutritious oil, which is a valuable ingredient in beauty and skincare products. It is highly prized for its moisturizing qualities and chemical stability. Therefore, the guide provides local enterprises with information that can support them in their export preparations to the European Union. Muetudhana said that the guide was produced with the help of multiple partners, including the German cooperation agency, GIZ, through its BioInnovation Africa project. On his part, GIZ's BioInnovation Africa team leader, Klemens Riha, said that the guide will increase understanding of international trade rules and regulations. 'The guide will also help develop capacity in the private sector, contributing to resolving obstacles that exist to get a foothold in the regional and international markets and to promote biodiversity-based enterprises,' said Riha, who is also responsible for climate change and the inclusive use of natural resources. Source: The Namibia Press Agency