Botswana Country Commercial Guide
Learn about the market conditions, opportunities, regulations, and business conditions in botswana, prepared by at U.S. Embassies worldwide by Commerce Department, State Department and other U.S. agencies’ professionals
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Business Customs

Botswana’s business culture is more reserved, and formal compared to the United States, with an emphasis on respect, protocol, and relationship-building.  Many business and government counterparts may initially be distrustful of outsiders, making it important to establish rapport through respectful greetings, such as a firm handshake, a smile, and the use of titles like “Mr.” or “Ms.” followed by the surname.  Formality in communication is highly valued, and slang or jargon should be avoided.  Respect for elders is deeply ingrained in Botswana culture, and the use of first names typically takes time; it is best to wait until your counterpart initiates this practice.
Business meetings should be reconfirmed 24 hours in advance, as they may start late, be canceled without notice, or be delegated to another person.  Interruptions, such as phone calls during meetings, are common and should not be interpreted as disrespect or disinterest.  Decision-making in Botswana often prioritizes consensus-building, which can take months or even years, requiring patience and flexibility.  Additionally, business proposals are often not taken seriously unless presented by an individual or company physically located in Botswana.
Formal attire is recommended for meetings, especially with government officials, as it is seen as a sign of respect.

Travel Advisory

As of February 26, 2024, the U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 2 travel advisory for Botswana, recommending travelers to “Exercise Increased Caution” due to crime.  Crimes of opportunity, such as theft of money and personal property, are common.  More serious crimes, including home invasions, break-ins, “smash and grabs” at intersections or from locked cars in shopping mall parking lots, cell phone thefts, and muggings, are routinely reported.  Travelers are strongly encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and facilitate assistance in case of emergencies.  Visitors should check the Department of State website;
(https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html/) for updates when planning to travel.  Also visit the CDC page on recommended vaccinations when traveling to Botswana at this link: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/botswana?s_cid=ncezid-dgmq-travel-single-001

Visa requirements

A valid U.S. passport is required for entry into Botswana, and U.S. citizens do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days.  The GoB imposes occasional entry restrictions for travelers from Ebola-affected countries, though these restrictions are not always publicly announced.

A work permit is required for employment in Botswana.  Companies can request a three- to five-year exemption for certain top executives, with support from the Botswana Investment and Trade Center (BITC).  Eligible positions include Chief Executive Officer, Production Manager, Technical Manager, Operations Manager, Sales and Marketing Manager, and Financial Manager.  Approved International Financial Services Centre companies may also use this process for positions such as Chief Executive Officer, Head of Treasury, Head of Accounting Department, and Head of Risk Management.

For U.S. companies requiring foreign businesspersons to travel to the United States, security evaluations are conducted through an interagency process.  Visa applicants should consult the State Department Visa Website for further guidance at the following link:  State Department Visa Website.

Currency

The Botswana Pula (BWP), symbolized as “P” and divided into 100 thebe, is the primary currency in Botswana.  Banknotes are available in denominations of P10, P20, P50, P100, and P200, while coins come in 5 thebe, 10 thebe, 25 thebe, 50 thebe, P1, P2, and P5.  Although the pula is the main currency, some outlets, such as gas stations and supermarkets like Spar and Choppies, accept the South African Rand, and certain hotels accept U.S. dollars.  Cash is widely used, particularly in rural areas and local markets, while credit and debit cards are accepted in major stores, hotels, gas stations, and food outlets.  ATMs, which accept Visa, Maestro, and MasterCard, are available in major cities, towns, large villages, hotels, and airports, with some, such as the FNB ATM at Sir Seretse Khama Airport, dispensing Rand notes.  However, American Express, Discover, and Diners Club cards are less commonly accepted. Mobile payment platforms like Orange Money and MyZaka are increasingly popular and widely used by businesses.  Foreign currency can be easily exchanged for pula at local banks or currency exchange agencies.  It is advisable to carry small denominations of pula for use in local markets, taxis, and for tipping.

Telecommunications/Electronics

Botswana Telecommunications Corporation holds a de facto monopoly on most voice services and exclusively manages the country’s fixed-line services.  Internet speeds are improving with the introduction of satellite providers like Starlink and BoFiNet’s expansion of fiber-to-home and fiber-to-business connections.  BoFiNet has also established free internet hotspots in public areas such as malls and airports.  DSL service is available for users seeking additional options.   Electrical power operates on 230/240 volts at 50 Hz, using type D, G, and M plugs.

Transportation

Major roads are generally in good condition, but driving can be hazardous due to long stretches of two-lane highways, unlit roads and frequent non-functioning traffic lights, high-speed driving, and the occasional presence of large animals on roads.  Avoid driving on rural highways at night due to increased risks.


Taxi Services

Taxis in Towns: Available but infrequent, unmetered, and often absent at airports.

  • Gaborone: Offers several 24-hour door-to-door taxi services, though reliability can vary.
    Ride-Hailing Services
  • InDrive: Reliable service allowing passengers to negotiate fares, making transportation more affordable and accessible.
  • Yango: A global ride-hailing service offering features like route sharing, SOS buttons, and 24/7 support.
    Both services operate via apps available on the App Store and Google Play.


Hotel Shuttles

  • Major hotels provide periodic shuttle services to downtown areas, but arranging transfers between business appointments can be challenging.
    Car Rentals
  • Renting a car is recommended for busy schedules, especially in Gaborone.
  • Driver Option: Rental agencies can provide a driver for an additional fee, which may be helpful as vehicles drive on the left side in Botswana.
    Travelers should plan transportation carefully, especially for business or rural travel.

Language

English is the official language used in government and business. Setswana is the predominant national language and the first language of most Batswana.
Visitors will find English widely used in formal settings, while Setswana is commonly spoken in everyday interactions.

Health

Inoculations

  • No inoculations are required for entry into Botswana.
    Malaria Precautions
  • Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for travelers visiting areas north of Mahalapye, including:
    o    Central Kalahari
    o    Chobe
    o    Tuli Block
    o    Ngamiland
    o    Northern game parks and reserves
    o    Bobirwa area (eastern Botswana)
     

Water Safety

  • Tap water in major towns is generally safe to drink.  However, bottled water is recommended for added safety.
    Medical Facilities
  • Gaborone and Francistown: Offer the most comprehensive medical facilities.
  • Beyond Major Cities: Medical facilities are limited, but medical evacuation services are available at most tourism facilities.
  • Private Hospitals: New private hospital developments are expanding access to healthcare in various parts of the country.

Payment and Insurance

  • Health providers often require immediate cash payment for services.
  • U.S. medical insurance may not be valid in Botswana; travelers should confirm coverage or consider purchasing travel insurance.
    Visitors should plan for health-related needs, especially when traveling to remote areas.

Local time, business hours, and holidays

Observed Holidays
2025:

  • September 30: Botswana Day
  • October 1: Public Holiday
  • December 25: Christmas Day
  • December 26: Observed Holiday

2026:

  • January 1: New Year’s Day
  • January 2: Public Holiday
  • April 3: Good Friday
  • April 6: Easter Monday
  • May 1: Labor Day
  • May 14: Ascension Day
  • July 1: Sir Seretse Khama Day
  • July 20: President’s Day
  • July 21: Public Holiday
  • September 30: Botswana Day
  • December 25: Christmas Day
  • December 26: Observed Holiday


Business and Government Hours

General Business Hours:
o    Monday–Friday: 07:30–12:45 and 13:45–16:30
•    Government of Botswana (GoB) Offices:
o    Monday–Thursday: 07:30–12:45 and 13:45–16:30
o    Friday: Close early at 13:30, though official hours are until 16:30.

Seasonal Closures

Many businesses and GoB offices close or operate with reduced staffing during:

  •  December and January
  • Easter Week
  • Mid-July

Time Zone

  • Botswana is 7 hours ahead of Eastern Time (ET) from November–April.
  • Botswana is 6 hours ahead of Eastern Time (ET) from May–October.
  • Botswana does not observe daylight savings time.


For planning purposes, consider these closures and time differences when scheduling meetings or business activities.

Temporary Entry of Materials and Personal Belongings

All travelers entering Botswana must declare recently purchased goods on a Baggage Declaration Form (Form J). Customs officials may conduct baggage searches to ensure compliance. Travelers should consult the Government of Botswana’s website for the latest guidance.
________________________________________
What You Must Declare
1.    Recently Purchased Goods: Items acquired outside Botswana, including gifts (e.g., wedding or birthday presents).
2.    Repaired or Altered Items: Goods or vehicles repaired or altered abroad, even if done free of charge.
3.    Duty-Free Purchases: Items bought in duty-free shops, including those purchased on aircraft or ships.
4.    Goods for Others: Items brought into Botswana for someone else.
5.    Business-Related Goods: Items intended for sale or business use.
________________________________________
Tips to Avoid Delays

Provide receipts and sales slips for goods purchased outside Botswana.
If you are uncertain about goods or their value, declare them and seek assistance from a customs officer.
________________________________________

Duty-Free Allowances
Customs duties are not charged on the following goods when imported as accompanied or unaccompanied baggage:
1.    Personal Effects: Sporting and recreational items (new or used) for personal use, or items exported by Botswana residents and re-imported.

2.    Consumables (declared at entry and not for trade):
o    Wine: 2 liters
o    Spirits/Alcoholic Beverages: 1 liter
o    Cigarettes: 200
o    Cigars: 20
o    Cigarette/Pipe Tobacco: 250g
o    Perfume: 50 ml
o    Eau de Toilette: 250 ml
3.    Other Goods:
o    From outside SACU*: Total value not exceeding R3,000.
o    From SACU*: Total value not exceeding R500.
o    Additional goods (outside SACU) valued up to R12,000 per person may be admitted at a flat duty rate of 20 percent, excluding consumables listed above.
(*R = South African Rand)

________________________________________
Important Notes
•    Exceeding Allowances: Duty applies at standard rates for goods exceeding the above limits.  Business or commercial imports do not qualify for these allowances.
•    Short Absences: Botswana residents returning after less than 48 hours are not eligible for the new/used goods concession.
•    Children’s Allowances: Except for tobacco and alcohol, children under 18 may claim concessions for goods intended for their personal use, even if unaccompanied by parents or guardians.
________________________________________
For further clarification, travelers are encouraged to consult customs officials upon arrival.

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Global Business Navigator Chatbot Beta

Welcome to the Global Business Navigator, an artificial intelligence (AI) Chatbot from the International Trade Administration (ITA). This tool, currently in beta version testing, is designed to provide general information on the exporting process and the resources available to assist new and experienced U.S. exporters. The Chatbot, developed using Microsoft’s Azure AI services, is trained on ITA’s export-related content and aims to quickly get users the information they need. The Chatbot is intended to make the benefits of exporting more accessible by understanding non-expert language, idiomatic expressions, and foreign languages.

Limitations

As a beta product, the Chatbot is currently being tested and its responses may occasionally produce inaccurate or incomplete information. The Chatbot is trained to decline out of scope or inappropriate requests. The Chatbot’s knowledge is limited to the public information on the Export Solutions web pages of Trade.gov, which covers a wide range of topics on exporting. While it cannot provide responses specific to a company’s product or a specific foreign market, its reference pages will guide you to other relevant government resources and market research. Always double-check the Chatbot’s responses using the provided references or by visiting the Export Solutions web pages on Trade.gov. Do not use its responses as legal or professional advice. Inaccurate advice from the Chatbot would not be a defense to violating any export rules or regulations.

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Translation

The Chatbot supports a wide range of languages. Because the Chatbot is trained in English and responses are translated, you should verify the translation. For example, the Chatbot may have difficulty with acronyms, abbreviations, and nuances in a language other than English.

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