Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade, Manqoba Khumalo, has met with the United States Chargé d’Affaires Marc Weinstock to strengthen Eswatini’s economic relations with America and explore new areas of cooperation.
The meeting also included Principal Secretary Melusi Masuku, Dumsani Dlamini who is an Economic and Commercial Specialist at the U.S. Embassy, and Martha Amaya who is an Economic Officer at the Embassy.
Minister Khumalo said his ministry plays a central role in attracting investment, creating jobs, and registering companies in Eswatini. He shared that he has served in the ministry for seven years and stressed the importance of building an export-driven economy.
“Eswatini is a great place to do business,” Khumalo said.The minister praised the working relationship between Business Eswatini and the U.S. Embassy. He also highlighted the Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority (EIPA) as the main agency responsible for attracting and supporting both local and foreign investors, as well as boosting exports.
With American businesses showing growing interest in the country, Khumalo called for a joint strategy to guide investment and trade. He urged that EIPA should take a leading role in this process. He also said Eswatini needs a clear framework to benefit from the lowest tariff rates available under U.S. trade agreements.
Khumalo further thanked Weinstock for supporting the John Deere project, which is close to being launched. He said the project will help farmers by improving agricultural production and supporting rural livelihoods.
The minister also announced that Eswatini will host an Investment Conference in New York on September 25, 2025. The event will take place on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.Weinstock said he was pleased to be in Eswatini and praised the discussions with the ministry. “The Minister speaks my language,” he said.
He confirmed the U.S. Embassy’s commitment to continue working with the government. On the issue of AGOA, he called for more talks to shape a clear path forward. “Let’s come together as a team, figure out what kind of business suits Eswatini, how we can do it, and what the best approach is,” he said.
Weinstock added: “Let’s create opportunities and jobs. Let’s invite the American Chamber to Eswatini.”The meeting was described as an important step in building stronger ties between Eswatini and the United States, with both sides looking to expand trade, investment, and shared prosperity.
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