Mbabane – The way shops operate and how businesses obtain trading licences could change as the Government reviews regulations governing Eswatini’s retail sector.
The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade is consulting retailers as it reviews the Trading Licences Order of 1975 and develops Shop Trading Hours Regulations.
The review could affect businesses and consumers by changing how trading licences are administered and how retailers operate under the country’s regulatory framework.
The government wants to simplify the licensing process so that businesses can more easily understand and comply with trading licence requirements.
The ministry is also examining procedures that may create unnecessary difficulties or costs for businesses.
Speaking during a stakeholder consultative meeting, Under Secretary Phesheya Dube said the retail sector was an important part of the economy, particularly through employment creation, support for local businesses and ensuring that consumers have access to goods and services.
The proposed changes also seek to provide greater clarity and consistency in the administration of trading licences.
For retailers, this could mean a clearer understanding of the requirements they need to meet when operating their businesses.
The ministry said the new regulatory framework would also have to respond to the needs of businesses while protecting consumers.
Dube encouraged retailers to use the consultation process to share their experiences, challenges and suggestions.
He said their input would help the Government develop regulations that are practical and effective.
The ministry said the reforms could also create a more conducive environment for investment, innovation, competition and enterprise development, with job creation among the expected benefits.
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