Africa-Press – Eswatini. Eswatini is seizing a unique opportunity to attract fresh investments and create more jobs, following the conclusion of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).
While the expiration of AGOA means the loss of duty-free and quota-free access to the United States for all African countries, Eswatini has secured a highly competitive trade arrangement with a Reciprocal External Tariff of just 10%. This makes the Kingdom the most attractive location in the region for U.S.-bound exports.
Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade, Hon. Manqoba B. Khumalo, said the development positions Eswatini to gain, rather than lose, from the new trade regime. “Our tariff structure ensures that companies looking for competitive access to the U.S. market are more likely to set up or expand their operations here in Eswatini,” he explained.
AGOA has been vital in sustaining thousands of jobs, especially in the textile and apparel sector. In 2024 alone, Eswatini exported around US$70 million worth of goods under the arrangement. With the new tariff framework, the government expects existing jobs to be protected, while also anticipating fresh opportunities as new investors move in.
The Ministry has also assured that factory shells and industrial infrastructure remain ready for immediate use, meaning companies can quickly set up operations. Beyond textiles, government is promoting diversification into agro-processing, ICT, and renewable energy, ensuring a stronger and more inclusive economy.
Khumalo added that Eswatini’s competitiveness would be further enhanced by ongoing reforms and by leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), opening access to wider markets. “We are more competitive than ever before, and this new landscape will translate into more investments, more jobs, and broader economic benefits for all our people,” he said.
Businesses with inquiries have been encouraged to contact the Department of International Trade through its Director, Ms. Lungile Dlamini, at 7606 3001.
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