The 57th edition of the Eswatini International Trade Fair (EITF) has officially launched at the Mavuso Trade Centre, with the spotlight firmly set on digital transformation, innovation, and international collaboration under the theme “Digital Transformation 2.0: Creating Business Networks.”
The 2025 event, scheduled to run from 29 August to 8 September, is poised to be one of the largest ever, with a surge in international exhibitor interest and expanded local participation.
Gracing the launch ceremony was the Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade, Manqoba Khumalo, who underscored the Trade Fair’s strategic role in advancing Eswatini’s economic agenda and catalysing inclusive growth.
“The Trade Fair is more than an exhibition — it is a catalyst for economic activity and a strategic driver in our national development agenda,” said Minister Khumalo. “This year’s theme reflects a global shift where digital technology is no longer a supplementary tool but a foundational pillar of economic competitiveness, resilience, and inclusive growth.”
In alignment with Eswatini’s “Nkwe” Programme of Action and the national goal of achieving a 12% GDP growth by 2029, the EITF will provide a platform for businesses, innovators, and entrepreneurs to connect, network, and explore investment opportunities.
The Minister emphasized the Trade Fair’s role in promoting industrialization, job creation, and small and medium enterprise (SME) development.
The launch also served as a call to action inspired by His Majesty King Mswati III’s vision for economic inclusivity and digital empowerment. “This Trade Fair answers that royal call,” added the Minister. “It will showcase local innovation, provide educational seminars, and promote our own artists, crafters, and manufacturers.”
As the organizing entity, Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority’s (EIPA) CEO, Sibani Mngomezulu, announced key additions to the 2025 edition to broaden participation and enrich the visitor experience.
“This year, we are introducing new experiential zones to further enrich the visitor experience: the Garden Zone paradise for plant lovers and horticulturalists, where exhibitors will showcase a vibrant array of products and services related to gardening and landscaping. We will also have the Lifestyle Zone and Wellness Day celebration of self-expression and holistic living, where exhibitors will curate experiences around health, beauty, fashion, and overall wellness,” said the CEO. “The Trade Fair is more than an event — it is an ecosystem of opportunity.”
Mngomezulu added that the exhibition will remain free to attend to encourage maximum public participation and to support greater exposure for local and international exhibitors.
He also noted that the EITF App, introduced last year, remains the official channel for securing exhibition space, with vendors urged to complete payment to guarantee participation.
Minister Khumalo acknowledged the vital role played by sponsors and partners in the fair’s success, including longstanding contributors such as FNB Eswatini (the EITF Premium Partner), Eswatini Bank, Swaziland Building Society, Jenny Internet, Corban Hardware, and Mula Sport.
He also highlighted the renewed collaboration between 8Bet and the Premier League of Eswatini, now in its second year, which brings a strong sporting component to the Trade Fair.
“We are grateful to all our partners who are contributing to the success of the Trade Fair,” Khumalo said. “Their investment in this platform is a statement of their commitment to national development.”
The event will once again feature a rich line-up of entertainment and cultural activities. From fun fair games, spinning and drifting, to cultural dances and sports competitions, this trade fair promises to be a stage for celebrating Eswatini’s vibrant talent-particularly in music, dance, and the creative arts.
“We are creating a platform where passion meets potential,” Mngomezulu said.