BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MBABANE – Eswatini’s ongoing business reforms have earned the Kingdom a place among Africa’s top performers, with the country ranked 10th best on the continent for ease of doing business in the World Bank’s Business Ready (B-READY) 2025 report.
Speaking on January 14,2026 during the Business Eswatini Annual Reflections 2026, held under the theme “King, Country, Business,” the Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade Hon. Manqoba Khumalo said it was a privilege to join the private sector at an event that sets the tone for the year ahead.
He said the gathering, titled “Contemplations 2026,” reflects the strong and symbiotic relationship between national leadership, economic success and the role of the private sector.
Hon. Manqoba Khumalo said Eswatini is entering a transformative period, adding that the top-10 B-READY ranking is a clear signal of the country’s upward trajectory on the global economic stage.
He said the ranking, contained in the World Bank’s B-READY 2025 report, positions Eswatini as the 10th best-performing country in Africa for ease of doing business, describing the achievement as a testament to the Kingdom’s collective will and reform agenda.
The Minister attributed the strong performance to improvements in business registration, dispute resolution, trade facilitation and enhanced digital services, which have contributed to a more efficient and investor-friendly environment.
He highlighted the establishment of the one-stop investment shop as a cornerstone of the reforms, saying the initiative simplifies processes for investors and entrepreneurs, making it easier to start and operate businesses while incentivising both local and foreign direct investment.
The Minister also commended the National Trade Facilitation Committee (NTFC) for its tireless efforts in ensuring the smooth flow of trade and investment. He said the country continues to record success with 24-hour border operations, with Lavumisa and Matsamo earmarked for extended operating hours.
On immigration matters, the Minister welcomed the recent fighting of the Immigration Bill, describing it as a critical legislative tool that will be used in alignment with the private sector to further enhance trade and investment. He expressed confidence that the Ministry of Home Affairs will be receptive to constructive input.
He said Eswatini’s GDP growth prospects remain strong, noting that the country continues to post encouraging figures, while expressing optimism for improved performance and increased job creation in the new year.
The Minister concluded by welcoming the growing collaboration between small and large businesses, urging established companies to continue adopting and nurturing small enterprises through mentorship, resources and market access, saying the partnership is key to building a resilient, inclusive and diversified economy.
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