….. King Welcomes Taiwan Investors with E6 Billion Industrial Park Project
BY MBONGENI NDLELA
MANDVULO – His Majesty King Mswati III has officially invited Taiwanese investors to explore the vast opportunities Eswatini has to offer, declaring: “Eswatini is ready for business.”
This historic announcement came during a high-level business engagement at Mandvulo Grand Hall on Tuesday evening, where a 22-member delegation of Taiwanese investors is currently on a week-long scoping mission in the Kingdom.
A Gateway to Africa and Beyond
Addressing the delegation, His Majesty positioned Eswatini as an ideal investment destination, citing its strategic location, political stability, preferential access to global markets, and a welcoming, low-crime environment.
“Eswatini is not only peaceful and stable,” His Majesty said, “it is also a gateway to Africa and the world. Our trade agreements allow companies that establish themselves here to access markets across the globe, including the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the European Union, and the United States under AGOA.”
The King highlighted Eswatini’s culture of hospitality and strong traditions as added benefits for long-term investors. He referenced Taiwan’s ongoing support, including its role in the strategic oil reserve project, and expressed admiration for the island nation’s resilience and innovation in the face of global challenges.
“Today, you are demonstrating to the world that Taiwan can contribute significantly to humanity. The challenges we face—poverty, disease, hunger, and conflict—can only be overcome through partnerships like this.”
E6 Billion Industrial Park to Create Over 5 000 Jobs
In what could become one of the most transformative projects in recent years, the Taiwan delegation revealed plans to invest E6 billion in the construction of a modern industrial park at Phocweni. The development is set to begin in early 2026 and will be completed within 18 months once commissioned.
The park will focus on light manufacturing, technology assembly, agribusiness processing, and green energy innovation, aligning with Eswatini’s industrialisation and climate goals.
According to the Taiwan Head of Delegation, Ms May Liao, the industrial park alone is projected to create over 5 000 direct jobs and stimulate thousands more in the value chain—including construction, logistics, training, and retail services.
“We are not just here to invest,” she said. “We are here to collaborate, learn, and grow together with the people of Eswatini.”
A Bright Future for Eswatini-Taiwan Partnership
Taiwan’s Ambassador to Eswatini, H.E. Jeremy Liang, emphasized that the visit was a practical expression of Taiwan’s foreign policy mantra: “Taiwan can help.” He described Eswatini as a key ally on the continent and pledged continued support in areas including agriculture, healthcare, education, and technology transfer.
“We believe Eswatini can lead in Africa, and Taiwan will be here to support that vision with real investments and knowledge-sharing,” he said.
During the business presentation, the Taiwanese delegation showcased investment proposals in solar panel manufacturing, smart agriculture, textile production, and automotive components assemble, each tailored to Eswatini’s strengths in natural resources, labor potential, and access to regional logistics routes.
The business forum was also attended by senior government officials, private sector leaders, and local entrepreneurs eager to connect with the Taiwanese firms for joint ventures, skills development, and export partnerships.
A Nation Ready to Rise
This landmark visit marks a powerful reaffirmation of Eswatini’s international relevance and readiness to lead Africa into a future of shared prosperity.
“We welcome you not just as investors, but as partners in building a future that benefits all our people,” His Majesty concluded, receiving a standing ovation from the packed hall.
As Taiwan and Eswatini deepen their economic ties, the message is clear: Eswatini is open, optimistic, and ready to thrive on the global stage.
Key Highlights:
• ✅ E6 billion Taiwan-funded Industrial Park to launch at Phocweni
• ✅ Over 5 000 direct jobs to be created
• ✅ Strategic sectors: manufacturing, agriculture, green energy
• ✅ Preferential market access for Taiwan firms through Eswatini
• ✅ Historic meeting strengthens 5-decade Eswatini-Taiwan friendship
(Courtesy Pic)
