Mbabane – Business Eswatini (BE) has met with representatives from the US Embassy to address growing concerns over new US tariffs and to explore opportunities for future trade and collaboration. The talks come as Eswatini braces for the impact of a 10% reciprocal tariff on select products, which could threaten key exports like sugar.
With Eswatini heavily reliant on the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) revenue pool, BE highlighted the risk these tariffs pose to the country’s economic stability. The organization also called for increased sugar export quotas to help maintain a balanced and mutually beneficial trade relationship with the United States.
“Unlike many other nations, the US enjoys a trade surplus with Eswatini, thanks to longstanding partnerships with companies like Coca-Cola and DD Williamson,” said BE President Mvuselelo Fakudze. “Tariffs could destabilize this balance and hurt both economies.”
In response, Allen Hodges from the US Embassy explained that the tariffs are not meant as punishment but rather as part of a broader strategy to correct trade imbalances and boost US revenue. He urged Eswatini stakeholders to remain patient as the US government engages with affected countries.
Beyond tariffs, the meeting opened the door to new collaborations. BE expressed interest in aligning its Business Women Eswatini (BWE) program with US initiatives like the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs and the Youth Business Accelerator. Opportunities in digital innovation, youth empowerment, and vocational training were also discussed.
The introduction of Carly Van Orman as the new Economic and Public Affairs Officer was welcomed by BE.
Discussion about this post