Business registration moves further online

A new digital name-reservation service is intended to make the first steps of registering a Namibian business more accessible.

The Business and Intellectual Property Authority has introduced an online platform that allows applicants to reserve a business name using a phone or computer. The service is aimed at entrepreneurs, investors and intermediaries who would otherwise need to travel to an office.

BIPA says the change responds to concerns about queues and delays. Applicants can still use an intermediary if they prefer, and the authority is encouraging people to become familiar with the digital process as it works towards faster business-registration services.