Africa-Press – Eswatini. With confidence and clarity, Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini reiterated Eswatini’s readiness to do business on the world stage as he addressed the Japan-Eswatini Business Forum held on June 3, 2025, in Osaka.
His speech painted a bright and ambitious vision for the Kingdom’s future, centred on investment, innovation, and inclusive growth.
“Eswatini is open for business,” declared Dlamini to a packed room of investors, government officials, and business leaders from both nations. He highlighted the kingdom’s participation in Expo 2025 not just as cultural representation, but as a gateway for boosting bilateral trade, attracting investment, and showcasing tourism opportunities.
The forum served as a bridge for deeper cooperation between the two countries. With current trade volumes standing at US$13.6 million—largely favouring Japanese imports, Dlamini announced plans to increase Eswatini’s exports, especially in timber, sugar, citrus, textiles, and women-led handicrafts. He called for Japan’s support in providing preferential access under its Generalized System of Preferences (GSP).
Building on momentum from last month’s Eswatini Investment Conference, which drew over US$2 billion in pledges, the PM invited Japanese investors to be part of Eswatini’s growth story.
“We have a proven track record,” he noted, citing the long-standing success of YKK Japan’s operations in Eswatini as a symbol of the kingdom’s business-friendly environment.
Eswatini’s strategic location was also emphasized. As a member of SADC, COMESA, and the AfCFTA, the country offers investors access to a vast regional market of over 1.4 billion consumers.
Looking ahead, Dlamini outlined government’s forward-looking development strategy, including the digital transformation of public services. “Our ‘Government in Your Hand’ app is inspired by Japan’s Society 5.0 vision,” he said, inviting Japanese expertise to help modernize Eswatini’s infrastructure and bridge the digital divide.
In a heartfelt message to the Eswatini diaspora in Japan, Dlamini encouraged them to act as ambassadors and networkers for trade and investment.
The address concluded with an invitation to key upcoming events: the Eswatini International Trade Fair in September, the 2026 Eswatini Investment Conference, and vibrant cultural showcases like the Umhlanga Reed Dance.
As the world prepares for Expo 2025, Eswatini stands ready, not just to participate, but to shine as a beacon of opportunity, warmth, and resilience. “Together,” the PM said, “let us forge a future of shared prosperity.”
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