BY TANDZILE DLAMINI
MBABANE — Government, through the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade, today launched a new industrial finance initiative to support micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the textile and clothing sector. The announcement was made by Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade, Manqoba Khumalo, at the Eswatini International Trade Fair.
Minister Khumalo said the scheme, called the Production Incentive Scheme (PIS) 2.0, is a shared responsibility between government and the private sector. It offers 100 percent grants, interest-free working capital loans for three months, and aims to include MSMEs in industrial development.
“The role of industrial finance in Eswatini is not confined to government corridors but is a shared mission with our private sector. Commercial banks and development finance institutions have played a pivotal role in supporting our MSMEs and large enterprises,” the Minister said.
The scheme will be implemented in two phases. Phase 1 will target SMEs, while Phase 2, planned for the 2026/27 financial year, will expand support to larger enterprises. The government has allocated E1.35 million annually for the initiative.
As part of the launch, the Eswatini National Industrial Development Corporation (ENIDC) and the Minister presented disbursements to Lucwembe Investment and Seal Manufacturers. Minister Khumalo said the scheme will increase financial inclusion, encourage investment in process improvements, and enhance quality output in the textile and clothing sector.
He thanked the Industrial Development Corporation, South African guests, panellists and participants, and urged stakeholders to work together to unlock Eswatini’s industrial potential.
(Courtesy Pics)
