By Bongiwe Dlamini

MBABANE: Senator Mancoba Khumalo,the Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade says the diplomatic relations that exist between eSwatini and the Republic of China on Taiwan enhances trade for economic growth between the two countries.

Speaking during the Taiwan-Eswatini Investors Forum and Matchmaking Event, attended by potential investors from Taiwan and the Republic of South Africa on Tuesday, the Minister said both Eswatini and Taiwan have enjoyed a mutual economic relationship that has seen both nations benefiting from growing trade.

“The mutual relationship fosters for the further promotion of economic and trade exchanges to be beneficial to both sides, committed to creating the conditions that would boost bilateral economic and trade cooperation.Eswatini’s growth potential is anchored around proximity to preferential markets and a modern governance system largely investor friendly and Government priorities to business environment and increase to private sector participation in economic activities. This forum came at the appropriate time when Eswatini has positioned herself to be an investment destination for global investors,” said the Commerce Minister as quoted by Government online platforms.

Speaking during the same event,Her Royal Highness Princess Sikhanyiso, the Minister of Information, Communication and Technology(ICT) who was represented by Principal Secretary Phesheya Dube said government was honoured and grateful to Taiwan for the situational analysis that is “a stride towards operationalising the Eswatini Special Economic Zones”.

The ICT Minister said in October 2022, the State visit to Taiwan ignited the conversation on assisting the Kingdom of Eswatini.

“The situational study by Export Processing Zones Authority (EPZA) could not have come at a better time; I applaud the institutions that will be partaking; and encourage them to contribute immensely. The study will show the linkages in the business ecosystem and that these institutions need to reinforce each other to champion the sector,” said the ICT Minister.

On another note, Taiwan Ambassador His Excellency Jeremy Liang said the event highlights the important role that Eswatini plays in the regional and international markets. 

“Not only is this event a signal that our bilateral and economic relation is thriving, but is also an assurance that our economy and business interactions are coming back to the right track in the post COVID-19 era,” said the Ambassador as quoted by Government online platforms.