Ezulwini – The private sector has reaffirmed its strong support for the expansion of Eswatini’s Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme, describing it as a strategic investment in national competitiveness that will enhance trade efficiency, attract new investment, and strengthen the country’s position in regional and global markets.
Speaking at the accreditation ceremony for newly approved AEO companies, Business Eswatini (BE) Chief Executive Officer, E. Nathi Dlamini, said that efficient border processes are no longer a luxury but a precondition necessary for growth. The AEO initiative, Dlamini noted, provides accredited companies with faster, more predictable customs clearance, translating into lower costs, stronger partnerships, and greater investor confidence.
“Every saved hour, every predictable clearance process, every risk-based intervention translates into lower costs and stronger partnerships,” he said. He added “efficiency is a competitive advantage.”
Dlamini praised the National Trade Facilitation Committee (NTFC) for steering the country toward a whole-of-government AEO programme, one that harmonizes efforts across multiple border agencies to create a seamless, digitally supported environment for traders.
The expansion, Dlamini noted, is vital for sectors such as agri-processing, manufacturing, logistics, and regional distribution, particularly for exporters of time-sensitive goods like fruits, sugar, garments, and consumer products, where border delays can lead directly to financial loss.
Beyond customs, the AEO reforms align with broader national efforts, including the operationalisation of one-stop border posts, data harmonisation, and digital customs reforms. Together, these initiatives aim to reduce the cost of doing business in Eswatini.
BE congratulated the newly accredited companies for their leadership, saying their participation sets a benchmark for others and will help shape future improvements in the programme.
“The AEO programme is a model of what is possible when the government and the private sector work together with clarity, transparency, and ambition,” he said.
As Eswatini advances toward a regionalized AEO framework, Dlamini expressed confidence that the kingdom will continue to lead by example in promoting efficient, reliable, and predictable trade facilitation across Southern Africa.
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