Standard Bank Namibia has launched its Cross-Border Interbank Payment System (CIPS) capability, becoming the first bank in Namibia to give clients direct access to China’s international payment system. The development follows Standard Bank Group becoming the first African bank authorised to participate in CIPS in November 2025. The group also became the first African-based bank jointly authorised with the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) to clear renminbi (RMB) transactions across Africa as the Renminbi Clearing Bank of Africa. Speaking at the launch, Standard Bank Namibia chief executive Erwin Tjipuka said CIPS will support Namibia’s economic growth by providing world-class payment infrastructure. Standard Bank Group corporate and investment banking executive Nelson Lucas says the launch places Namibia on a proven continental payment network facilitating growing trade between Africa and China.