Swazi Observer

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ZIMBABWE EYEING ESWATINI AS ITS EXPORT DESTINATION

By NOKUNCEDA MAGAGULA | 2025-02-27

Eswatini has emerged as a promising export market for Zimbabwe, following President Emmerson Mnangagwa's assumption of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) chairmanship in August last year.

This leadership role had significantly enhanced Zimbabwe's regional engagement, providing a strategic platform to strengthen trade relations across Southern Africa, according to an article by The Sunday Mail.

Local Economist Thembimkosi Dube said Eswatini importing from Zimbabwe would present challenges due to the country being affiliated with the Southern African Customs Union (SACU), whereas Zimbabwe is not.

He mentioned that however, increased trade between Zimbabwe and Eswatini could lessen the country’s dependency on South Africa.

“This would make Eswatini depend less on South Africa for trade and create a large pool of choice,” he said.

He noted that the country was on a journey of an export led economy and reduced imports by becoming sustainable.

According to the article, President Mnangagwa's position as SADC chair had placed Zimbabwe at the heart of regional trade, opening doors for greater economic cooperation with neighbouring countries facilitating the movement of goods and services.

“This is a golden opportunity for Zimbabwe to deepen its trade ties within the region and unlock untapped potential,” reads the article.

In his capacity as SADC chair, President Mnangagwa has actively promoted regional integration, encouraging Member States to explore mutually beneficial trade opportunities.

This aligns with Zimbabwe's ‘economic diplomacy’ strategy under the second republic, spearheaded by the ministry of foreign affairs and international trade.

The strategy enabled Zimbabwe to diversify its trade partners and engage with previously under-explored markets.

One such market is Eswatini, a landlocked Southern African country with a population of approximately 1.2 million. Eswatini imports the bulk of its goods, making it a ripe market for Zimbabwean exports.

Zimbabwe's participation in the Eswatini International Trade Fair (EITF) in September last year underscored this potential.

At the event, representatives from Zimbabwean ministries and institutions showcased a variety of local products and services, highlighting the country's capabilities and quality offerings.

The trade fair was a significant milestone, as it provided a platform for Zimbabwean businesses to connect with Eswatini buyers and demonstrate the quality of our products.

Eswatini's reliance on imported goods presented numerous opportunities for Zimbabwean exporters.

Processed foods, in particular, received favourable feedback from Eswatini buyers. Products such as biscuits, sweets, potato chips, wine, cordials, tea, and coffee have been praised for their quality and taste.

“Zimbabwean food products were well-received at the Eswatini trade fair. Beyond food products, other sectors also hold promise.

Zimbabwe's leather industry, known for its durable and high-quality goods, has the potential to meet Eswatini's growing demand for unique, well-crafted leather items.

Additionally, the cosmetics sector, particularly essential oils, represents another lucrative opportunity.

Zimbabwe's favourable climate and fertile soil allows for the cultivation of plants used in essential oil production, such as eucalyptus, lavender, tea tree, and lemongrass.

“Essential oils are becoming increasingly popular in Eswatini as consumers shift towards natural and holistic wellness products,” noted a Zimbabwean agricultural expert. “This is a market we can tap into by offering premium, sustainably sourced oils.”

Zimbabwean producers also had an edge in the clothing sector, particularly in safety wear, which is in high demand in Eswatini's mining, construction, and manufacturing industries.

With expertise in producing high-quality protective gear such as reflective jackets, overalls, and industrial boots, Zimbabwean manufacturers are well-positioned to meet this demand.

The shared membership of Zimbabwe and Eswatini in regional trade agreements, such as the SADC Trade Protocol and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), further facilitates trade by reducing tariffs and streamlining market access.

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