BY MBONO MDLULI
EZULWINI – The One Stop Shop is set to be part of the inaugural Eswatini Investment Conferences, which is set to take place on May 14-15, 2025.
This was said by Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade Principal Secretary (PS) Melusi Masuku. He was making his key-note address during the One Stop Shop Validation Workshop, which took place at Royal Villas in Ezulwini.
This initiative aims to streamline the business application process in Eswatini, addressing challenges faced by investors.
Key Points from the Address
- Importance of Stakeholder Consultations: Principal Secretary Melusi Masuku emphasized the value of stakeholder consultations conducted last year, which have laid the groundwork for understanding the necessary approval processes for starting a business in Eswatini.
– Government Support: The establishment of the One Stop Shop has been highlighted in several government initiatives, including:
– His Majesty’s speech during the official opening of Parliament.
– The government program of action for 2024-2029.
– Integration into the new investment policy and the investment and trade promotion bill.
Expected Benefits
– The One Stop Shop will expedite approval for work permits, licenses, and registrations.
– It aims to improve Eswatini’s B-Ready index, which assesses the business environment for investors.
Historical Context
- Despite the Swaziland Investment Promotion Act of 1998 mentioning a one stop shop, its implementation has been lacking. Previous efforts by the Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority (EIPA) have only provided a one stop information center.
- The current initiative aims to create a fully operational one stop service facility to enhance investor confidence.
Technical Support and Implementation
- The European Union (EU) and the International Trade Centre (ITC) are providing technical assistance and best practices from other countries to ensure the effective design and execution of the One Stop Shop.
- The facility is expected to address business bottlenecks identified in recent government-to-business dialogues.
Conclusion and Future Steps
- The One Stop Shop is anticipated to be operational in this fiscal quarter, contributing to the momentum of the upcoming investment conference.
- Preparations are in advanced stages, with institutions already engaged to form the initial team for the service facility.
- The goal is to provide a comprehensive and professional service under one roof, significantly reducing bureaucratic hurdles for new businesses in Eswatini.
Closing Remarks
The initiative represents a significant step towards enhancing the investment climate in Eswatini, and the government appreciates the ongoing support from various stakeholders, including the EU and ITC.
