EZULWINI – The Government of Eswatini has set an ambitious target of exceeding E50 billion in exports by the year 2030, signalling a decisive shift towards export-led growth, industrialisation and deeper global trade integration.
This was revealed by the Minister for Commerce, Industry and Trade, Manqoba Khumalo, during the Eswatini–United Kingdom Business Forum held at Royal Villas in Ezulwini yesterday, an event that brought together senior government officials, the British High Commission, UK trade representatives and the local private sector.
The high-level forum underscored Eswatini’s determination to leverage strategic trade partnerships–particularly with the United Kingdom–to expand exports, attract investment and create sustainable employment opportunities.
In his keynote address, Minister Khumalo warmly welcomed the UK delegation led by British High Commissioner to Eswatini, Colin Wells, describing their presence as a strong affirmation of the long-standing and historic relationship between the two countries.
“Eswatini and the United Kingdom enjoy relations that go back many decades,” said Khumalo. “These ties have evolved beyond diplomacy to include meaningful collaboration in trade, investment, education and development. Today’s forum is an important milestone in ensuring these relations translate into tangible commercial partnerships and expanded trade flows.”
He emphasised that the forum was not merely ceremonial, but aimed at unlocking practical business opportunities and strengthening cooperation between Eswatini and UK enterprises.
The minister noted that the forum was taking place at a time when the global trading environment remains uncertain, shaped by geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions and shifting economic alliances.
“Against this backdrop, today’s engagement sends a powerful message of optimism and resilience,” he said. “It demonstrates that open, rules-based trade and strategic partnerships remain vital instruments for economic growth and shared prosperity.”
Khumalo highlighted the importance of trade agreements such as the Southern African Customs Union plus Mozambique (SACU+M) Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with the United Kingdom, which provides a predictable and preferential framework for trade.
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... UK encourages Eswatini exporters
EZULWINI – In his remarks, British High Commissioner Colin Wells, urged more Eswatini businesses to take advantage of the UK market, noting that only a handful currently export there.
“This isn’t good enough,” Wells said candidly. “The next time we hold such an event, I want to see many more hands up.”
He emphasised that UK growth priorities extend beyond domestic interests. “We want to see Eswatini grow too,” he said, adding that expanded exports would lead to job creation and stronger economic outcomes for the kingdom.
Wells highlighted the fifth anniversary of the SACU–UK EPA, describing it as a powerful tool offering minimal or zero tariffs for exporters.
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EIPA: E2.6bn trade figures inspire confidence
EZULWINI – Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority (EIPA) Chief Executive Officer Sibani Mngomezulu, said the forum was a practical platform to unpack opportunities under the SACU–UK EPA.
Mngomezulu revealed that the UK is one of Eswatini’s most important trade partners, with exports in 2024 reaching over US$153.7 million (approximately E2.6 billion)–second only to South Africa.
“These figures give us great confidence that we can further increase export volumes across multiple sectors,” he said.
He noted that current exports to the UK are dominated by sugar, citrus fruits, canned fruits, textiles, ethanol and handicrafts, but stressed the need for diversification to ensure long-term resilience.
Market analysis, he said, shows strong UK demand for African products such as tea, cut flowers, coffee, macadamia nuts, honey and avocados.
“Eswatini is already making strides in these areas,” Mngomezulu said, adding that EIPA is facilitating the establishment of a macadamia processing facility to prepare local produce for international markets.
*Full article available on Pressreader*
