WINDHOEK, April 17 (Xinhua) -- A renowned Namibian economist and University of Namibia academic on Wednesday applauded the strengthening economic ties between Namibia and China.

Omu Kakujaha-Matundu told Xinhua that financial ties between Namibia and China are bearing fruits as indicated by an increasing export earnings from Namibia from the Asian power house.

"Of late Namibia is exporting more to China." "Namibia's exports to china have actually increased significantly. Recently the Namibian Statistics Agency confirmed that Namibia's exports and imports with China have swelled by more than 17 percent," he said.

He reiterated that the two countries have benefited immensely from trade diversification as well willingness to actualize deals that were signed in the past.

"Unlike in the past where most of Namibia's exports to China were coming from the mining industry, of late we are now exporting agriculture products including our highly rated beef."

This is one of the major reasons why trade arrangements between the two countries are improving and will continue improving, he said.

Kakujaha-Matundu said China is turning out to be the all-weather friend that most African countries have been looking for.

The economics specialist added that China is a key trade partner because its policies are set on enhancing trade.

"China has also realized that engagements with Africa should be based on trade relations that are mutual," he said, adding some countries are keen on giving donor aid which in some cases does not develop Africa.