Mbabane, — The Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority (EIPA) has opened applications for locally based manufacturers who wish to exhibit at Designed Giftionery Expo 2026, scheduled for 16–19 April 2026 in Taipei, Taiwan.
The invitation targets export-ready enterprises producing value-added goods, particularly in gifting, stationery, lifestyle products, handicrafts, beauty and wellness, and other creative industries. Applications close on 12 February 2026, with interested businesses required to apply via https://tinyurl.com/EIPAGiftioneryForm.
The Taiwan exhibition opportunity builds on a year of intensified export development initiatives rolled out by EIPA in 2025. These included the launch of an Export Guide, a structured 2026 Trade Show Calendar, enhanced promotion of local businesses through export storytelling, as well as Export Readiness and Trade Map Training aimed at strengthening market intelligence and international competitiveness.
Speaking on the opportunity, Sibusiso Mnisi, Executive Head: Trade Promotion at EIPA, said the expo aligns strategically with Eswatini’s growing base of creative and manufacturing enterprises.
“Following a series of deliberate training interventions in export readiness and market intelligence, EIPA is pleased to invite export-ready Eswatini businesses to apply to exhibit at Designed Giftionery 2026 in Taipei. This platform aligns well with the creative and value-added products produced by Eswatini traders and offers direct access to the Asian market,” Mnisi said.
He added that participating businesses will benefit from direct engagement with buyers and distributors, enabling them to test market demand and establish new trade relationships within Asia.
Designed Giftionery is one of Asia’s leading trade shows, attracting buyers, retailers and distributors from across the region, and is recognised as a key gateway into Asian consumer markets. The expo provides a curated platform for brands seeking to scale internationally, particularly within premium and design-led segments.
EIPA’s facilitation of Eswatini’s participation is supported by the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), which will assist selected businesses with flights, accommodation and exhibition space. The initiative also strengthens utilisation of the Economic Cooperation Agreement between Eswatini and Taiwan, which allows duty-free access for 199 Eswatini products into the Taiwanese market.
Mnisi emphasised that exhibitors will be expected to demonstrate a high level of preparedness.
“Applicants are encouraged to ensure their products meet international market requirements, that their pricing structures are export-ready, that branding and packaging are suitable for a global audience, and that they are ready to engage professionally with buyers and distributors,” he said, adding that Innovation in product positioning and brand storytelling will be key.
The Designed Giftionery 2026 opportunity forms part of EIPA’s broader mandate to diversify export markets, strengthen non-traditional exports, and position Eswatini businesses competitively within global value chains.
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