BY SIBUSISEKILE NDLANGAMANDLA
MANZINI – 2026 Eswatini International Trade Fair is expected to provide local businesses with a platform to showcase products, introduce innovations and connect with consumers and potential markets.
The Trade Fair will be held from August 28 to September 6 at the Mavuso Trade and Exhibition Centre under the theme, “Unlocking Green Economy Opportunities for Sustainable Trade Promotion” Among the new concepts planned for this year’s event is Chef Sunday, which will bring food and local production together through cooking demonstrations.
The concept will feature chefs preparing dishes using ingredients manufactured or produced in Eswatini, giving visitors an opportunity to see how locally produced food products can be used in different meals. Sihle Nkhabindze, Manager for Domestic Trade Promotion at the Eswatini International Trade Fair, said Chef Sunday will provide another way of showcasing local products beyond conventional exhibition stands. This initiative will also give food manufacturers and producers an opportunity to have their products featured while allowing consumers to experience their use in a practical setting.
Trade Fair will also provide a platform for the Made in Eswatini initiative, which promotes products manufactured and produced within the country. Made in Eswatini is a broader initiative aimed at strengthening the visibility and recognition of locally produced goods and services. The initiative has been championed by Her Royal Highness Princess Sakhizwe, who has visited local businesses and producers as part of efforts to understand their experiences and promote the development of a stronger local production ecosystem.
The initiative also seeks to encourage consumers to recognise and support products that are made in Eswatini, while creating greater opportunities for local producers to access markets. Through its presence at the Trade Fair, Made in Eswatini will give exhibitors and consumers an opportunity to engage around local production, innovation and the value of supporting products created within the country.
This is expected to create opportunities for businesses across different sectors to interact directly with consumers and other stakeholders. It will also allow exhibitors to demonstrate their products, receive feedback from the market and identify possible opportunities for growth. The focus on locally produced goods and innovation is expected to contribute to discussions around strengthening domestic industries and expanding the market for Eswatini-made products. The Trade Fair will therefore serve as a meeting point for producers, consumers and other stakeholders interested in growing local enterprise.
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