By Nontokozo Gwebu
A bold push to position Eswatini as a hub for mega investments is gaining ground, with over E30 billion in investment commitments and more than 1,600 jobs already created in the first quarter of 2025.
Leading the charge is the Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority (EIPA), which has rolled out aggressive strategies to attract foreign capital, streamline investor services, and expand local job creation.
According to the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade’s First Quarter Performance Report 2025/2026, EIPA’s achievements include high-level international missions, preparation for the inaugural Eswatini Investment Conference (EIC), and the operational launch of the Business One Stop Shop (BOSS), a facility aimed at simplifying how investors start and grow businesses in the country.
The launch of the BOSS facility marks a new era in investor support. By consolidating key services under one roof, the initiative aims to simplify the process for investors to establish, operate, and grow their businesses in Eswatini. Developed in partnership with the International Trade Centre (ITC), the BOSS consolidates services like company registration, trading licenses, visas, and tax registration in one physical and virtual space, streamlining the once-fragmented investor journey.
Meanwhile, the Eswatini Investment Conference shaped up as a milestone moment. With more than ten mega projects confirmed, the EIC showcased Eswatini’s investment readiness to global stakeholders. These projects alone are expected to generate nearly 40,000 jobs over the next 4–5 years.
On the ground, EIPA facilitated the reallocation of factory shells to textile firms in Matsapha and Matsanjeni, expected to create over 1,000 jobs. In Hlathikhulu, Infinity Knits opened operations and created 300 jobs, while SIGMA Clothing and Smart Wear Manufacturers in Ndzevane are now employing more than 1,000 workers combined, proving the impact of decentralizing industrial zones.
EIPA’s global missions also opened new opportunities. In Taiwan, discussions advanced around the establishment of a 158-hectare Taiwan Industrial Park in Eswatini. Additional outreach in Angola, Poland, and South Africa engaged potential investors in sectors ranging from electronics to textile recycling and rail logistics.
Back home, over 20 companies, including Illovo, Kellogg Tolaram, and FZ Capital, were assisted with investor facilitation services such as permits, tax registration, and compliance documentation, ensuring smooth entry into the local market.
The Authority also ramped up trade promotion, preparing for Japan Expo 2025 and commissioning Eswatini’s national pavilion. At the same time, local exporters received AI and market diversification training, while groundwork continued for the Made in Eswatini Initiative.
EIPA’s management of the Mavuso Trade and Exhibition Centre saw the venue exceed revenue targets. Plans are underway to upgrade systems and expand its use as a national events hub.
At policy level, the Investment Act is undergoing stakeholder review, while the Investment Policy is due for Cabinet consideration. Internally, EIPA is now rolling out a new strategic plan and monitoring framework to measure long-term impact.