MINISTER of Commerce, Industry and Trade Manqoba Khumalo has unveiled an ambitious plan to take the Eswatini Consumer Fair onto the international stage, with Taiwan identified as a key target.
Speaking during the official launch of the Eswatini Consumer Fair 2026 at the Mbabane Municipal Council chambers yesterday, Khumalo emphasised the need to showcase local products and talent to global markets.
The event, attended by Princess Sakhizwe, Patron of A Peculiar People and the driving force behind the fair, continues to position itself as a critical platform for economic growth and entrepreneurial development.
As preparations gather momentum for the second edition scheduled for May 1 along Dr Sishayi Road in Mbabane, the minister said it was time for the initiative to expand beyond national borders.
“I have to engage with Princess Sakhizwe to have this event held outside the country. We have to host the event in Taiwan as this will align with Eswatini taking over the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) chairmanship next year. Let us showcase what we have as a country, products that are proudly made locally. Eswatini is associated with high standards,” he said.
Khumalo further welcomed efforts to formalise and protect local brands through the ‘Made in Eswatini’ mark, describing it as a key tool for distinguishing local products in competitive markets.
“The Made in Eswatini mark will serve as a critical identifier in a crowded marketplace and we welcome the decision to license it for use by entrepreneurs behind local products and services,” he said.
He added that the fair’s scheduling on May 1, a public holiday, was a deliberate economic strategy aimed at maximising participation and boosting sales for small businesses.
“Workers form the backbone of our consumer base and on May 1 they will have greater purchasing power, which will maximise turnover for our micro, small and medium enterprises,” the minister said.
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