Africa-Press – Eswatini. Government has welcomed the recent 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs announced by U.S. President Donald J. Trump, while declaring that strong diplomatic efforts are underway to protect the country’s vital trade relationship with the United States.
Although the 10% tariff imposed on Eswatini’s exports remains unchanged, the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade has moved quickly to engage U.S. counterparts through its embassy in Washington, D.C. to seek fairer treatment and advocate for Eswatini’s removal from the list of affected countries.
What Are These Tariffs About?
To help Emaswati understand, tariffs are special taxes charged on goods when they cross international borders. For example, if a textile factory in Eswatini exports shirts to the U.S. worth E100, a 10% tariff means American buyers must pay an extra E10, making our products more expensive and less competitive in the U.S. market.
Earlier this year, the U.S. introduced such tariffs under Executive Order 14257, aiming to apply pressure on countries they believed were not offering reciprocal trade terms. While the July 31 Executive Order by President Trump pauses these measures globally for 90 days, it does not yet remove Eswatini from the tariff list.
Eswatini Responds with Action and Optimism
Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade Manqoba Khumalo, assured Emaswati that government is actively working to reverse this situation.
“We have initiated diplomatic consultations through our embassy in Washington, D.C. and submitted Eswatini’s position to the U.S. Government,” he said.
“Our country values its longstanding trade and economic relationship with the United States, and we remain committed to open, rules-based, and mutually beneficial trade.”
Khumalo disclosed that engagements with U.S. counterparts will continue, as Eswatini advocates for an outcome that supports both nations’ development goals.
AGOA Expiry Adds Urgency
Adding to the urgency is the upcoming expiration of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) at the end of September 2025. For years, AGOA has allowed Eswatini’s goods to enter the U.S. market duty-free, creating thousands of jobs in sectors like textiles, agriculture, and manufacturing.
“We have made our representations to the U.S. and strongly urged them to extend AGOA,” said Khumalo. “It’s a program that has transformed lives in Eswatini by giving our goods access to one of the world’s largest markets.”
He encouraged exporters and the private sector to stay alert and engaged as the trade landscape continues to evolve. The Ministry is committed to updating stakeholders as more information becomes available.
Why This Matters for the Average Liswati
For the man on the street, these developments might seem distant, but they have very real consequences. Thousands of Emaswati are employed in export-related industries. If tariffs continue or AGOA is not renewed, companies might struggle with higher costs, leading to reduced exports or even job losses.
But there is good news. Eswatini Government has responded with speed, skill, and diplomacy. Instead of panic, it has chosen engagement. Instead of retreat, it is pushing forward with hope and strategic action.
Looking Ahead with Confidence
As Eswatini positions itself on the global stage, its message is clear: the country is ready to compete, ready to cooperate, and ready to grow. The pause in tariffs may not be a complete solution yet, but it offers a window of opportunity, one the government is using wisely.
“Together, with our partners and stakeholders, we will navigate these challenges,” said Khumalo. “Eswatini is committed to protecting jobs, growing our exports, and strengthening our voice in international trade.”
For now, citizens are encouraged to stay informed, support local industries, and trust that their government is working around the clock to ensure Eswatini’s continued prosperity in global markets.
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