BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MANZINI— The Ministry of Commerce Industry and Trade, in partnership with the Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority (EIPA), had launched the 58th edition of the Eswatini International Trade Fair (EITF) 2026 at the Mavuso Trade and Exhibition Centre in Manzini.
On May 19 2026 government leaders and captains of industry gathered at the venue to mark the official start of preparations for the country’s premier trade showcase.
Held under the theme “Unlocking Green Economy Opportunities for Sustainable Trade Promotion,” the fair will run from August 28 to September 6 2026. The date for the official opening ceremony will be announced in due course.
The Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority (EIPA) invites all exhibitors investors and stakeholders to take part in the 58th edition of the Eswatini International Trade Fair and make full use of the platform to showcase innovation build partnerships and expand market reach across sectors.
Delivering the remarks of the Minister of Commerce Industry and Trade Principal Secretary Melusi Masuku highlighted the fair’s long standing role in national development and economic inclusion.
“Since its inception in 1968 this fair has remained a cornerstone of our nation’s development continuously reengineering business models and driving economic growth by providing a premier platform for the exchange of ideas” the Minister’s statement read.
He further stressed the strategic direction for this year’s edition
“We urge all exhibitors from SMEs and large corporations to government institutions to showcase their Environmental Social and Governance frameworks and demonstrate that Eswatini operates according to the highest standards of ethics transparency and social responsibility”
Sibani Mngomezulu Chief Executive Officer of EIPA confirmed that there will be no increase in exhibition rates for the second consecutive year ensuring affordability and encouraging greater participation by MSMEs and foreign exhibitors
“Keeping rates unchanged allows small and medium enterprises to showcase their products find buyers and build networks that sustain growth” Mngomezulu said
EIPA has also expanded outdoor exhibition space and is encouraging exhibitors to consider custom built stands to enhance visibility
The seminar programme continues to be a key feature of the trade fair In 2025 seminars attracted 1150 participants reflecting growing engagement in knowledge sharing and business development
Prospective exhibitors are advised to take note of the following dates:
-Closing date for exhibition applications 26 June 2026
-Deadline for payment 25 July 2026
Applications can be made through the EIPA website or via the official EIPA mobile app available on the Google Play Store
This year’s theme places strong emphasis on Environmental Social and Governance principles and circular economy practices such as recycling upcycling and green finance
A dedicated Green Zone in partnership with Nedbank will highlight sustainable financing while the Fit Friday initiative will promote wellness among exhibitors and visitors
Building on the success of the 2025 edition which recorded 282 exhibitors including 22 international participants and more than 70 000 visitors EITF 2026 will once again combine business seminars local talent showcases entertainment and sporting activities
emaSwati and international visitors are encouraged to attend in their numbers from 28 August to 6 September 2026 and be part of Eswatini’s journey toward sustainable and inclusive economic transformation
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(Courtesy Pic)
