Africa-Press – Eswatini. The European Union (EU) has reaffirmed that Eswatini continues to enjoy tariff-free access to markets in EU member countries.
This assurance was made by EU Ambassador Karsten Mecklenburg during the Europe Day celebrations on May 9, 2025, at Malandela’s Lifestyle in Malkerns.
Key Highlights from the Announcement
– Tariff-Free Exports: Ambassador Mecklenburg emphasized that under the EU-SADC Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), there are ZERO tariffs on any exports from Eswatini to the EU, which consists of 27 member states and 450 million consumers. He assured that this situation is stable and not subject to sudden changes.
– Support for Local Businesses: The ambassador highlighted the importance of local businesses benefiting from recent projects implemented by the International Trade Center, showcasing various beneficiaries such as:
– Favourite Furniture and Decoration (furniture)
– Vukani BoMake (textiles)
– Eswatini Coffee
– Benanial (jewelry)
– Indigenous Africana (bags and accessories)
– Collaboration with Local Entities: The EU is working closely with the Government of Eswatini, local companies, and Business Support Organisations to maximize opportunities available through the SADC-EU Economic Partnership Agreement. This includes:
– Strengthening Public-Private Dialogue.
– Increasing value addition, productivity, and competitiveness of local companies.
– Enhancing the capacity of local trade and investment bodies.
Historical Context and Commitment
– European Unity: Ambassador Mecklenburg referenced the historic speech delivered by French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman on May 9, 1950, which laid the foundation for European cooperation. He noted the EU’s transformation into a major global actor promoting peace, stability, and sustainable growth.
– Principles of Cooperation: The ambassador articulated that the EU’s core values include:
– Solidarity, democracy, and fundamental freedoms.
– Acceptance of mutual challenges as a pathway to collective progress.
– Commitment to Eswatini: The EU has been a reliable partner for over 50 years, contributing significantly to various development initiatives in Eswatini. These efforts include improving access to:
– Clean water and electricity.
– Education and health services.
– Sustainable agriculture and infrastructure development.
Ambassador Mecklenburg concluded by emphasizing the EU’s role as a predictable and principled partner, committed to promoting open economies and rules-based trade that foster sustainable development. He reiterated the EU’s determination to build long-lasting partnerships that are mutually beneficial.
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