Since its official launch during the Eswatini International Trade Fair 2025, the BuyEswatini e-commerce platform has recorded over E15,000 in transactions, connecting more than 70 local companies and listing over 150 unique products across sectors ranging from crafts and food processing to clothing and services.
The platform, which continues to gain traction since its pilot launch under the Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority (EIPA), represents a major step toward integrating local businesses into the digital economy. More than 100 buyers are already registered, and 65 successful sales have been processed, marking tangible progress in Eswatini’s shift toward online trade.
These milestones were celebrated this week during the BuyEswatini Capacity Building Workshop for Traders, hosted by EIPA’s Trade Promotion Department in collaboration with the Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan), through International Integration Systems Inc. (ISI). The workshop was designed to equip local traders with the digital tools and confidence needed to succeed in an increasingly connected marketplace.
Speaking at the opening, EIPA Executive Head of Trade Promotion, Sibusiso Mnisi, said the initiative is not only about selling online but about transforming how Eswatini conducts business.
“BuyEswatini is not just a platform; it is a movement, a celebration of our creativity, our craftsmanship, and our collective potential,” said Mnisi. “Every sale made online proves that Eswatini’s business community is ready for digital transformation.”
He explained that the BuyEswatini vision is to create a national e-commerce platform that links Eswatini’s products and services to buyers locally, regionally, and globally.
Mnisi extended appreciation to the Government of Taiwan for its unwavering support in strengthening Eswatini’s digital trade capacity. Through this partnership, EIPA has been able to enhance the BuyEswatini platform, improve visibility for local traders, and host key initiatives such as the capacity-building workshop.
“Our gratitude also extends to the Government of Eswatini, the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade, and all partners who continue to guide and champion this important initiative,” Mnisi added. “Sustainable progress is built through partnership and shared purpose.”
The workshop featured practical training sessions led by Tina Lin, a Taiwanese digital marketing consultant from Wonderfood Technology with 15 years of international experience. Lin guided participants through essential aspects of managing online stores, building customer trust, and leveraging digital marketing tools.
“E-commerce is more than just listing products online,” Lin told participants. “It’s about creating a complete and engaging shopping experience, breaking traditional barriers and opening new opportunities for entrepreneurs.”
Among the many traders who benefited from the session was Lungelo Dlamini of Patience Delight, a local brand known for its cookies and jams. Dlamini said the BuyEswatini platform has opened new markets and improved sales visibility.
“Since joining BuyEswatini, we’ve seen a noticeable increase in sales and customer inquiries,” she said. “The platform has widened our reach beyond our usual customer base and introduced Patience Delight to new buyers we wouldn’t have reached otherwise.”
BuyEswatini’s growing momentum was evident at the Eswatini International Trade Fair 2025, where the platform was showcased to thousands of visitors. For the first time, traders demonstrated live online transactions, reflecting Eswatini’s readiness to adopt digital trade.
Top-performing brands on the platform include Honey Child Style, Lujilo Honey, My Coils, Patience Delight, and Master Candy—businesses that have quickly adapted to online selling and gained new customers through digital exposure.
Mnisi said the next phase will focus on strengthening logistics and payment systems, improving the user experience, and connecting traders to larger local and international markets.
“Each step you take online, each sale you make through BuyEswatini, brings us closer to a stronger, more connected economy,” he concluded.