We wish to confirm that Saturday, 19^th April 2025 will be observed as the official King’s Birthday Public Holiday.

Please note that:

1. The Date Is Fixed: The holiday will not shift to another day, even if celebrations occur on a different date. This is mandated by Section 2 of the Public Holidays Act, 1938 (see attached).
2. Overtime Pay: Work performed on 19^th April 2025 must be compensated at the public holiday overtime rate, as outlined in the Industry Wage Regulations. Members are reminded to make the necessary payroll adjustments.

For any inquiries or further assistance, please contact the Secretariat.

SUBMISSION OF COMMENTS – MUSIC TARIFFS DRAFT

REMINDER: The Eswatini Copyright & Neighbouring Rights Society (ESWACOS) has proposed new music tariffs (herein attached) under the Copyright Act 2018, requiring businesses to pay licensing fees for using music in commercial activities (e.g., background music in restaurants, live events, broadcasts, or public transport). While the tariffs aim to compensate artists and protect intellectual property, they could significantly raise operational costs for businesses—particularly SMEs in hospitality, retail, and events—through fees based on premises size, audience numbers, or revenue percentages.

Business Eswatini is advocating for balanced tariffs that support local artists while safeguarding business viability. We need your input to highlight sector-specific challenges, propose fair pricing tiers for SMEs, and ensure flexibility for seasonal/occasional users. Your feedback will shape our formal submission to ESWACOS and the Ministry of Commerce. Please share your concerns to musam@business-eswatini.co.sz on or by Wednesday 30 April 2025.