Business Eswatini (BE) recently held a pivotal meeting – engaging in consultative talks on matters of business and trade with Mr. Allen Hodges accompanied by Mr. Dumisani Dlamini from the American Embassy in Eswatini, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to fostering strong international partnerships that benefit its members. The discussions centered on enhancing trade relations, empowering women entrepreneurs, and leveraging opportunities under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). 

BE CEO opened the meeting with an overview of the organization’s role as the leading voice of the private sector, advocating for policies that drive economic growth and investment. Mr. Hodges expressed the US government’s eagerness to engage more closely with Eswatini’s business community, highlighting new opportunities for collaborative initiatives. 

Key Opportunities for BE Members 

1. Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) – The US Embassy introduced this empowering program aimed at supporting women-led businesses, aligning with BE’s Business Women Eswatini (BWE) initiative. BE will explore synergies to enhance female entrepreneurship. 

2. AGOA Utilization – The US noted that Eswatini has underutilized AGOA benefits, which, if maximized, could significantly boost exports and create jobs. To this BE extended a request to the US Embassy regarding the review of the sugar exports quota and to explore possible prospects to increase it.

3. Market Expansion for American-Linked Businesses – The Embassy is reviewing its definition of American commercial businesses, potentially opening doors for Eswatini enterprises selling US products. 

The discussion also touched on the potential impact of US-South Africa relations on Eswatini’s economy. Given Eswatini’s close trade and currency ties with South Africa, BE emphasized the need for proactive engagement to safeguard local businesses. Mr. Hodges assured continued dialogue to address concerns regarding navigating regional challenges. 

Both parties agreed to strengthen collaboration, with the US Embassy committing to regular updates on programs affecting the private sector. BE also shared about the upcoming Business-to-Government (B2G) forum to further advocate for member interests by fostering an inclusive economy and strengthen collaborative partnership with government institutions. The CEO further extended an invitation to the US Embassy to this high-level engagement.  This meeting underscores BE’s role in securing valuable international partnerships, ensuring Eswatini businesses remain competitive and informed. Members are encouraged to engage with BE to leverage these emerging opportunities.