Govt pivots to green economy as EITF 2026 launched

GOVERNMENT has announced a strategic shift towards the green economy to drive sustainable trade, investment and long-term economic growth.

Speaking at the Mavuso Trade and Exhibition Centre yesterday, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade Manqoba Khumalo said the 58th edition of the country’s flagship trade showcase would run from August 28 to September 6 under the theme ‘Unlocking Green Economy Opportunities for Sustainable Trade Promotion’.

He was represented by Principal Secretary Melusi Masuku during the official launch of the Eswatini International Trade Fair (EITF) 2026.

He said the theme signalled a deliberate policy direction aimed at positioning the country as a competitive and responsible player in global markets, urging exhibitors from small businesses to large corporations and government institutions to adopt and showcase robust environmental, social and governance (ESG) frameworks.

Khumalo explained that the 2026 Fair would go beyond symbolic commitments, focusing instead on how businesses could practically unlock value within the green economy including opportunities in recycling, upcycling, circular production systems and green finance.

He noted that the focus areas would be driven through a comprehensive programme of business seminars, exhibitions and media engagements, designed to unpack the economic potential of sustainable practices and promote responsible production and consumption.

At the same time, the Minister said the Fair would continue to build on progress made in digital transformation, with businesses encouraged to embrace e-commerce and artificial intelligence to improve productivity and enhance customer experience.

He added that inclusivity would remain central to the event, with deliberate efforts to ensure that youth and women participate meaningfully through targeted seminars, talent showcases and enterprise development platforms.

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Khumalo described the Trade Fair established in 1968 and now in its 58th edition, as a cornerstone of the country’s economic development, noting that it continues to serve as a vital bridge between local and international markets by facilitating trade, investment, innovation and knowledge exchange.

He said the event also played a broader role in fostering national unity and economic empowerment, while continuously evolving to reflect global trends and domestic priorities.

Highlighting the importance of collaboration, he said the success of the Fair was underpinned by strong partnerships between government, the private sector and sponsors whose contributions continue to enhance the scale and impact of the event.

He further pointed to the growing integration of sectors such as sports, entertainment and culture into the Trade Fair, noting that such linkages including partnerships supporting sports tourism are expanding the event’s appeal and economic footprint.

Khumalo also acknowledged the media’s role in amplifying the country’s economic agenda, urging continued coverage that would spotlight the country’s transition towards a greener, more sustainable economy.

He noted that the 2025 edition attracted more than 70 000 visitors, expressing confidence that this year’s Fair would build on that momentum as the country intensifies efforts to attract both local and international exhibitors.

“May I call on businesses, innovators and institutions to take full advantage of the platform by showcasing sustainable solutions and green innovations. The future of trade will increasingly be defined by environmental responsibility and ethical business practices.

With sustainability now taking centre stage alongside digitalisation and inclusivity, the 2026 edition of the EITF would reflect a more forward-looking, resilient and globally aligned Eswatini economy,” Khumalo said.