YOKOHAMA – Government is seeking Japanese partnerships to strengthen Eswatini’s energy sector and expand trade opportunities, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade Manqoba Khumalo has said.
Speaking on the sidelines of the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9), Khumalo pointed to the long-standing presence of Japanese firms in the kingdom, such as YKK Zippers, which has operated locally for 50 years. He revealed that new companies, including a tractor manufacturer, are considering setting up operations in Eswatini.
Energy supply remains a priority, and Khumalo confirmed that discussions are underway between Japanese companies and the Eswatini Electricity Company (EEC). Natural Resources and Energy Minister Prince Lonkhokhela, who is also part of the delegation, has been holding talks with potential investors, with negotiations expected to continue.
“We are exploring a public-private partnership model involving both governments and Eswatini’s private sector,” Khumalo said.
Beyond energy, Khumalo explained that Eswatini is pushing infrastructure development through Japan’s trade and development programmes. He added that the country is also seeking to expand exports beyond the current focus on wood chips from TWK in Pigg’s Peak, Montigny and Shiselweni Forestry.
Japan has shown interest in importing anthracite coal from Eswatini, which could create new opportunities for Maloma Colliery. The mine has been hit hard by the downturn in South Africa’s coal sector, where smelter closures have forced it to scale down operations and retrench workers.
Khumalo said His Majesty has directed that engagements go beyond formal sessions, urging direct interaction with Japanese industry leaders. The Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority (EIPA) is showcasing investment opportunities at a dedicated stand during TICAD 9, which ends tomorrow.
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