BY NONCEDO SHABANGU
MBABANE – The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade has launched a consultative process to develop new Shop Trading Hours Regulations, designed to empower youth and women while modernising Eswatini’s commercial framework.
The proposed regulations are intended to introduce flexibility in business operations, encourage extended trading, and create additional employment opportunities, particularly for young people and women. This initiative forms part of a broader effort to modernise outdated commercial laws and support inclusive economic growth.
Speaking at the consultative meeting, officials from the Ministry emphasised the importance of aligning trading regulations with the evolving economic landscape. The current Trading Licences Order of 1975 has guided commercial activity for decades but is increasingly seen as restrictive in a dynamic, innovation-driven, and globally integrated economy. Updating the framework, the Ministry explained, will streamline licensing, simplify regulatory compliance, and remove provisions that no longer reflect contemporary business realities.
“Our goal is to create an enabling environment for youth and women to actively participate in Eswatini’s retail and services sectors. Flexible trading hours will allow entrepreneurs to maximise business opportunities while responding to consumer needs,” Ministry representatives said.
The consultative meeting brought together representatives from business associations, chambers of commerce, municipal and town councils, the private sector, and consumer organisations. Stakeholders reviewed the existing regulations, discussed proposed amendments, and explored mechanisms to foster entrepreneurship and inclusivity.
Officials highlighted that the new regulations are designed to provide dual benefits. They aim to empower demographic groups traditionally underrepresented in the economy while also enhancing consumer convenience through extended trading hours. By promoting flexible shop operations, the Ministry hopes to stimulate economic activity and increase the participation of youth and women in business.
“Modernising our commercial laws is not only about regulatory compliance; it is about economic empowerment. When young people and women have opportunities to operate businesses effectively, the benefits ripple through communities and the wider economy,” Ministry officials added.
The initiative is part of a wider effort by the Ministry to modernise Eswatini’s commercial legislation, creating a more competitive and business-friendly environment. By simplifying licensing procedures, reducing bureaucratic barriers, and accommodating modern trading practices, the government aims to enhance the ease of doing business while supporting enterprise growth and innovation.
Consultations are expected to continue over the coming weeks, with stakeholders providing input on specific provisions of the regulations. Following the consultation process, the Ministry will finalise the new Shop Trading Hours Regulations, paving the way for a more inclusive and flexible retail sector.
The planned reforms underscore the government’s commitment to economic empowerment, innovation, and equitable opportunities, reinforcing the role of youth and women as key drivers of Eswatini’s commercial growth. By modernising outdated frameworks and promoting flexible trading, Eswatini is positioning itself for a more dynamic and inclusive economy that benefits businesses, consumers, and communities alike.
